The fall of Kumogakure's diplomatic power could rest on Kenji's shoulders. He was the leader of intelligence, and the one trusted to orchestrate alliances. Due to his more selfish endeavors as of late, Kumogakure had slowly turned into an enemy of almost every nation. Kenji along with many other powerful Kumogakure shinobi bolstered a respectable military, but even they would have their limits. If they did not form alliances soon, or demonstrate their usefulness in some capacity to their foes, there would be no assurance that a devastating invasion would not be imminent. Their borders had been crossed before, but they survived. Now was different though, their foreign relations were deteriorating, that the next invasion might feature more than just one village.

As it stood, Kumo and Suna were on neutral grounds. It was Kenji's responsibility to take advantage of this. It was his intention to travel to Sunagakure and assist all the shinobi in their day to day tasks to demonstrate Kumogakure was willing to help. Kenji also wanted to show his dedication to forming an alliance by learning Sunagakure's signature specialty, the puppets. He was scheduled to meet with the Kazekage. He did not know anything about the sand's leader. But that would change shortly. 

Kenji and his friend Kasfara, the lovable giant blue lion, would be accompanying him. The Sannin was always a little worried about bringing Kasfara with him, in fear that he would scare people. However, Kenji wanted Sunagakure to know that with Kenji's help would also come Kasfara's help and commitment. Kenji's bags were packed, he did not have much. He had a lot of granola bars, a few change of clothes, his standard weapons, and water. It would be a 2 day trek for the duo. As soon as they crossed Kumogakure's border, his entire body was energized as he looked forward to the trip. 

Making it out of Kumogakure's high altitude was a shock to Kenji's system, but he quickly adapted, he accredited this to his Senjutsu training, but it was perhaps unrelated. Kasfara was a true warrior, but out of combat was a tad lazy... and so was Kenji. They both loved to sleep, but they made a great effort to wait until they reached their checkpoint. They would find a hotel right outside of Sunagakure, before they continued their march inside.

They had now transitioned from the brisk thin air of Kumogakure, to the thick and cozy heat of Suna. In the bordering town outside the main village, Kenji and Kasfara tried to keep a low profile, but it was quite difficult. They set up shop, late in the night, and headed out early in the morning. 

As they embarked on the entrance gates, a few guards approached the blue haired friendly. They shook Kenji's hand and gave him a warm welcome to the land of the sand. The terrain was so vast. There was a very attractive energy about the atmosphere. They were escorted to their rooms. It was a very private quarters, and he was very appreciative of the hospitable gesture. The Kumogakure affiliates unloaded their things. Kenji immediately began his letter to the Kazekage, addressed the specifics of their meeting and his gratitude. He was sure this could be the beginning of a mutual beneficial relationship. 

He paused for a moment from his letter, and began to ponder what would be the best way to become familiar with the locals. He was hopeful he could find a few of Sunagakure's strongest shinobi to work alongside, so that they could build a working rapport. He was also keen on checking out some of the local activities. Kenji glanced over at Kasfara. He could sense he was becoming restless. 

"It is really hot here Kenji. I hope our guide can point us to some places to cool down."

Kenji gave a stifled chuckle, then returned to his letter.

WC: 662

EXIT THREAD