Oooops?....(Closed)

[Kousuke]

Just another day in Iwagakure.

Os so Kou thought.....


Early that Morning....

Kou had just returned from another boring mission, escorting some snob related to the Council to a drop off point. It was handed down through legit channels, and there seemed nothing amiss. He finished his assignment and went to pick up his payment from the clerk a little early to go drinking and buy "supplies" for some spare time antics.

The village was on edge lately, with the apparent betrayal of the Lady Tsuchikage and the Council taking the reigns suddenly. Things didn't quite add up for Kou, at least not enough to make a difference. His loyalty did not lie with the people in charge, but rather the civilians. He wouldn't throw himself on a sword to save some dusty old moth rat who has made himself fat and wealthy due to the suffering of others.

 After picking up his payment, Kou headed for the Distillery to pick up some Iwagakure specialty liquor "Himizu" or fire water. The liquor was distilled from rice and special herbs that only grew high in the mountains in certain caves, it was pricey and it was incredibly strong.

Kou bought two gourds and took them with him. Today was the anniversary of the battle at Oni no mon Yosai or Demon Gate Fortress. He had watched several dozen good shinobi fall before the blades of a group of brigands and nukenin, which always reminded him of the danger of delusions.

He also remembered his own Sensei, Saburo who had betrayed Iwagakure and began attacking its citizens in order to "Save" it from itself. Perhaps Saburo was right, that Iwagakure could not stand. Perhaps he some some vision of what was to come. No. Saburo took Kenzou's teachings and distorted them to fit his delusions. His former was a lesson in being wary of those in power. Or rather it reinforced Kenzou's philosophy on Iwagakure

Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment and the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent then the one derived from fear of punishment.

These little lessons were always ringing around in the back of his mind. His long gone teacher had been like a second father to Kou, and he would continue that legacy by surviving and protecting his Nakama (Friends). He was walking through the streets and passed by his Fathers workshop and noticed the closed sign. He had hoped to stop by and have a drink with his father and brothers (both of whom were smiths) before heading up to his own apartment.

He walked around back to the medium sized dwelling built into the side of the large mountain. Inside he could smell dinner cooking, most likely it was Sukiyaki or Oden. His father two favorite dishes. He rounded the corner into the den area of the dwelling and saw his father with Kou's niece Amaya on his lap.

Kou waived and smiled as he passed through to the Kitchen where his Mother was undoubtedly finishing dinner. "Ah Kousuke! Have you come for dinner?" she asked smiling ever so gently. His mother was a thin woman with long black and grey hair, and several wrinkles. Her skin was fair, yet slightly darker than Kou and her hands were rough with callouses from a days work in the garden or at the forge. "Ah. Sorry mother.

I am not able to stay long. I just came to drop some Himizu off for pops." He said smirking and leaving the gourd on the wooden table. "I see. It is an unfortunate circumstance but I understand. Whenever you are free, please come by. Amaya would love to see her uncle Kou more often." she replied softly.

He understood her disappointment, and truth is he had wanted to spend time with his niece. However, he had obligations and had to report to the council tomorrow on the ongoing search for the former Tsuchikage. He hugged her and passed back through the living room on his way out, again nodding to his father before hugging Amaya and promising to take her for Ice cream one of these days.

He left slightly sad that his job kept him from remaining in the village for anymore than a few weeks at a time. The longest he had remained in the village since he became a Chunin was when he was laid up in the hospital several years ago.

A few Hours Later.... (Following These Events)

Kou watched as the council chambers exploded. Fiery rubble had exploded outward and luckily not seriously injured those nearby. Was this an attack by the previous Tsuchikage? No. All reports were that she was MIA or deceased. So who attacked the council? It didn't matter at this point. He could see panic already starting to form in the streets. Iwagakure was leaderless.

As the crowd began to fill around the estate and rumors began flying, that some defectors had assassinated the council on behalf of the traitorous Tsuchikage, soon it would turn into a witch hunt. Kou had to quickly take control until a more senior member of the village could organize some form of assessment. Kou wasn't afraid so much as worried that fear and anger would turn the mob into a violent riot.

This wasn't a random attack. It had been planned. But the problem would be determining who. No one seemed to know anything, and it seemed there had been no survivors. He would wait until someone with some answers might show up. If nothing else, he would continue to try and hold the crowd back and keep the peace.

[☆ F ☆]

☆

a new earth shadow steps forth to claim the throne!

Shortly after the explosion and his subsequent unseen escape, F would have his clone usher away his kidnapped aid while he proceeded with the next phase of his plan. With the official documentation declaring the Uchiha as the next Tsuchikage signed by the council, as well as all of the mission slips and receipts for successful operations in hand, F would now approach whatever stable, organized security force remained active within the village during these trouble times. Mitzy's ANBU had been obviously removed during her escape, and with the council guards slain in the fire, finding a stable police force appeared difficult at first. He decided instead to appeal to any remaining ANBU appointed by the council. And it worked; while most of the citizens were distracted with the commotion caused by the explosion, F would soon arrive on the scene with an organized force.

"Make way! Help has arrived!"

Guards would break off into small groups, some focusing solely on putting out the fires coming from the chambers, while others cordoned off the area and helped establish control. Given his paperwork was legitimate, his actions thus far were verifiable and undoubtedly in the favor of the council (as his missions came from them once Mitzy left, including his infamous raid of the Valentine mansion), and that his alibi checked out regarding what he was doing during the explosion (a small lie placed him at the mansion a lot longer than true), his word regarding what happened would not be questioned. Rather, given the turbulent atmosphere that choked Iwa as a result of both Mitzy's escape and the council's aggressive nature, any form of resolution and change would be more than welcomed. As such, the Uchiha's authority went unquestioned. Now, to put out the fire, find the bodies and identify members of the 'Valentine' family as those fallen with the council members, therefore canceling each other out.

"If anyone has pertinent information regarding what happened, please come forth and inform the ANBU so that they may do their job properly!"

"Otherwise, please disperse immediately so that we may clear this mess up as soon as possible!"

Surrounded by guards, there'd be little doubt as to how official F's word was. Several shinobi existed in the area, though none were closer than ten meters due to the guards. Pushing the crowds back, they left only a few officials to exist at the scene of the crime. He had little to say at this point, but kept a vigilant eye for the area. Even though the hardest part of this takeover seemed to be complete, there was always the possibility of a random, last-minute loyalist coming out to ruin everything. The three guards nearby would help quell any disention; still, the last thing he wanted to associate the birth of his reign with was violence; that is, at least in the eyes of the villages...

"What a mess..."

He'd remain in this area only for a brief moment longer. Once the ANBU felt convinced the scene was controlled and an answer to the assassinations was obtained, he'd leave alongside his guard, on to the next state of affairs - shutting down all old programs and structures while installing new ones. His first project? The Kage tower.

[ 300 / 300 ]

MADE BY ♔KOJIHIME

[Kousuke]

"Make way! Help has arrived!"

The sudden remarks from voices in the crowd forced Kou to divert his attention from the manion, which now was now being surrounded by more village shinobi. ANBU had arrived on site, yet still no one had stepped forward until he saw someone taking further control of the situation. Kou recognized the man leading them as an outsider the council had "hired" to quell any loyalists to the Former Tsuchikage. He had seen the person in question several times, but never concerned himself with the dealings of crochety old men. The man always seemed to have good intentions, and his skills were reputed to be among the top in the village, so Kou had always made a point of trying not to cross him. He even avoided playing his infamous pranks on the man.

"If anyone has pertinent information regarding what happened, please come forth and inform the ANBU so that they may do their job properly!"

"Otherwise, please disperse immediately so that we may clear this mess up as soon as possible!"

Kou recognized several of the shinobi escorting the outsider and decided to play nice. He wasn't sure what was going on, but it seems this person was truly trying to help out.He decided to step forward and explain what he knew up until now.  "Yes sir. I arrived shortly before the explosion. I had not witnessed anyone entering or exiting the building, as soon as I was able I established a perimeter and made sure that I tried to keep the peace. It seems someone didn't like the way things were run? Possible loyalists hiding in the city? Whomever it was, hopefully we know soon. Before people start turning their neighbors into the ANBU for interrogation." Kou remarks. He felt the only way to keep the city calm in this situation was to show some sort of normalcy among the remaining Shinobi.


He didn't particular truth this foreigner, but he didn't feel he was a threat to the people. Afterall, if he had wanted to stage a coup, there would have been much easier ways. No. This attack on the council felt like it was personal. Likely it was some rogue unit related to the Valentine family who had decided with their power base gone, their best course of action was to destabilize the entire region.

Selfish men act for their own personal gains, and due to their greed, it seemed like the village would suffer.

"So what do we do now?" Kou asks after hearing the other remark about the mess. Of course it was a mess. Someone just assassinated the entire council and a building exploded. Right now, Kou knew Iwa needed direction and soon. If it got out that Iwa was lleaderless at this point, it might prompt the other nations to invade.

[☆ F ☆]

☆

"it was the valentines!?"

Controlling the fire was not as difficult as initially expected due to the architecture of the building itself. Though there were many flammable objects within, and the explosion itself contained much power (F had combined a plethora of explosive tags with the power of Mist Waltz), most of the building was actually comprised of rock. As such, with the flame's heat not high enough to melt any of the stone, eventually the flames would be abated with some simple Suiton and Fuuton techniques; it was a huge boost that the Iwa ANBU was so diverse and well prepared for disaster situations. Then again, it made sense the remaining forces were trained strictly for support and recovery, as the council had foolishly expended the use of the main offensive cells during the village's Valentine purge.

Though their strength was not in combat, it was certainly with support. As such, it would not be long before the recovery was complete. With the flames slain, the next team now began to sift through the rubble, smoke still rising from the ground. A random flashback reminded him that he had left certain items belonging to the Valentine family in the chambers prior to leaving to add to the believability of the identity of those found alongside the council member's bodies. Thus, it was only a matter of time before the investigators made the link F had purposely left undone before their eyes. He was on the final lap, playing a waiting game of discoveries and clues he had both laid forth personally, and was already privy to. Now, as screams in the background regarding found bodies chimed in, the Uchiha would be approached by an unknown Iwa shinobi. He was offering information on the situation.

"Greetings, soldier! What say you…?"

After hearing his story intently, F would nod and wave, a sign of greeting extended to the Iwa-nin. The announcement regarding the Uchiha's rise to power rule was not widespread yet, as his ANBU guard duty had barely received notice themselves. Though word was spreading quickly, it would still take time. Enthralled in first response and damage control, F had still not shared with this group his ascension to the throne of Tsuchikage. Understandably so, this would only raise the level of confusion following the explosion and subsequent mess. F knew he must do something; after a few more moments, he would respond to the shinobi, as well as anyone in ear shot. It was time to become one with the village of stone.

"What do we do...? We overcome. Soldier, what is your name…"

As soon as a response was given, he'd continue.

"…and a fine name that is!"

"Look here - as a contracted agent of Iwa, the council entrusted me with certain tasks prior to their unfortunate demise. "

"One of these tasks included the leadership of this village..."

He'd let this piece of new sink in for a moment, a pause taken before he'd resume his speed.

"I hesitated at first, but I soon realized just why they did this. While they were the shield, they had no sword."

"And now, as we stand here beside their perished existence, we are reminded a sword needs a shield, and a shield needs a sword. Help me help us..."

"Now, let us overcome!"

As soon as his speech ended, the team behind would finally create the Valentine connection, their family name shouted loud and soon found across the mouths of all those present. It seemed the plan continued to operate smoothly. For now, he'd relish the interaction with other villages, all while being aware it would soon be time to leave. There was more organizing left to be done. However, something about this newly met shinobi intrigue him. Perhaps he could serve as a key ally to F's reign, helping him move even further and achieve more? Only time would tell. He certainly looked formidable...

[ 300 / 300 ]

MADE BY ♔KOJIHIME

[Kousuke]

Truth was, Kousuke was a little skeptical of this explosion. It seemed clean and concise, and had the markings of a traditional terrorist attack. Something the Valentines could have pulled off. But how could no one notice them.

 Had they entered through secret passageways? What was he missing. No matter, the man standing before him in blood red combat armor asked a question and in a strictly military way. Soldier? He wasn't used to be addressed as soldier.

That's when the reality of this person being an outsider struck loud and clear. "Kousuke Muto, Jōnin. Known by my title as Tenken Seijin." Kou replied to his request for his name. He kept his position formal and bowed slightly with his right arm across his chest as if greeting a foreign diplomat. It was mostly meant as underlying sarcasm, as he had never really had to introduce himself to someone from Iwagakure. But then this person wasn't from Iwa.

The surrounding support teams had successfully finished dealing with the fire and and word came from inside the building. Evidence to support the theory of Valentine supporters. Kou stemmed the feelings of anger. Did these people not realize what they had done? Had they simply not cared for the people of Iwa? What if an innocent had been caught inside?

Truthfully he began to despise these "Loyalists" who put their own name and agenda before the people of Iwagakure. He wasn't particularly fond of the previous Tsuchikage, but the more evidence came to light, the more he began questioning her from the beginning. His eyes drifted to the building once more, and flash backs from his near death experience several years ago caused him to clench his teeth and grip the handle of his sword.

The man in the red armor began speaking again and informed him of the intent of the council to place him in power. He didn't find it odd that the council had chosen someone from outside of the village as Tsuchikage. They were crochety old men who cared more for coin and power than they did the citizens. Perhaps thats what sparked the attack? Had the Valentine assassins found out and attacked the building? It seemed only logical.

The man didn't speak like a Tsuchikage, he spoke like a military dictator. He had heard that type of speech before. Before he was forced to kill the one delivering it. He knew the events were unrelated but still he could not help but remember those moments in times like today.

When the man finished Kou again bowed and addressed him as Tsuchikage-sama. The team inside of the building confirmed what most had already put together. Bodies had been identified as several Valentine loyalists and family members. It was an apparent suicide attack, at least from what Kou could glean from the various conversations going on around them.

Kou heard the newly appointed Tsuchikage refer to swords and shields in an overblown speech that politicians often give in order to quell any unrest. It didn't bother Kousuke as much as others that a foreigner was now holding the highest seat of Authority. He simply wanted things to return to normal quickly.

He undoubtedly knew the Tsuchikage was a busy man, but still he couldn't but help think about the entry ways into the council chambers. He brushed it off, regarding it as not his obligation. If required he would investigate the event further, but if the people were satisfied with the answer than who was he to dig up shadows and dangerous monsters?  Justice was an illusion. It was a fairy tale that people told themselves to ignore the evil deeds their leaders do.

However, with the council gone, Kou couldn't help but feel relieved. Perchance this new Tsuchikage would be a breath of life to the dying carcass that was Iwagakure.

"Ahhh shit."

The thought came too late. "Lord Tsuchikage. If there is anything that may require my attention please do not hesitate. I have extensive knowledge of the area, and extensive experience in diplomacy as well as combat maneuvers." Kou began again bowing slightly as a sign of respect "Most of the shinobi here respect me for my accomplishments at the Oni no mon Yosai (Demon Gate Fortress) four years ago. I would be honored to help fill in for whatever is required of me" he states finishing and waiting for a reply from their new leader.

"Had to go and open my big mouth. I have a feeling this is going to lead to a lot of paperwork. Or worse. Actual work." he thought again.

HIs eyes drifted to the sky and he cursed his luck for a brief moment. He realized that maybe this new comer wasn't so bad and hopefully wouldn't load him down with tons of work. Maybe a promotion would give him extra free time for pranks. He hoped it would. But seriously doubted it.

[☆ F ☆]

☆

"We shall overcome, and we shall prosper!"

Though his attention wavered at first due to the chaotic situation unfolding before them, mention of his rank and profession immediately caught his eyes - he was a Jounin, AND an instructor? Bingo! Despite the nefarious nature of his take over, F actually had good intentions, and was not intending to put anyone from the village in harm's way. Thus far Iwa had embraced and treated him well, even if it was at the behest of one or two people, while others whose opinion did not matter hated the Uchiha's existence. But it was mostly born of jealously, as his skill had a tendency to be quick to overshadow that of others. Oh well; it could not be helped. Hopefully his approach to leadership would be assimilated without much resistance. So far, all was well; and it would only get better if he had men of Kousuke's caliber under his banner.

"Kou-Su-Ke…"

"...nice to meet you!"

"Listen Kou - we shall prosper together, y'know? You and me, as well as all of us in Iwa."

"We're gonna remind the sky just how high life can go!"

The fluff meter was high, but then again, F was truly relishing this moment, basking in the situation and finding extreme pleasure in its execution; he was certain he'd be enjoying his stay there. After accepting Kousuke's bow and returning it with a milder one from his own - he was a soldier, he was a leader, he was a commander, but most of all, he was a humble - he'd listen to the rest of what he had to offer. His reference to an old situation named the 'Demon Gate Fortress' was unknown to the Uchiha, but then again, most things Iwa would be to him right now; it was only natural, given he was so new to the Earth country and its hidden village. Still, he'd make a point to learn more. For now, he'd discern it was an event with survival being low, thus warranting his high ran and profession. After having surmised this, he'd respond to the Jounin's offer.

"That is exactly how we move forward, soldier."

"Iwa needs your knowledge now more than ever. Think of it as a child. A sweet but broken baby."

"It's our turn to raise that child. It's been beaten, it's been abandoned, but that child still stands - and it will still grow!"

The Uchiha would wave to a nearby ANBU, masked and donning full battle gear, previously tasked with holding the line alongside the other guards. Shrouded in secrecy, F would whisper a command in his ear, to which he'd almost immediately follow; within a few moments, the ANBU member was gone. His task? To gather all of the elite members of Iwa for one giant meeting. Kousuke had a brilliant concept in mind. By gathering these great powers and gaining their acceptance into the roles of his commanders, he'd set the tone for how the recovery would take place, as well as get to know the future leaders of his armies. After all, who better to help F with Iwa than those born and teated by the very Earth itself?

"Let us grow together. Soon, we shall meet..."

"...soon, we shall talk."

He'd remain for a moment more, open to any question the Jounin had should he offer it. As he did so, his mind would drift onto Mitzy once more. With zero knowledge as to where she was, locating her and bringing her back would be a near-impossible task. He only hoped for the best, and as if thinking his actions could improve the chances of her return, had earlier secured the escape of whatever Valentine blood remained in the village. Right after the sacking of Valentine manor, but before his assasination of the council, F and his clones secured their escape, leading them out of Iwa and on a path away from Tsuchi. He had done his part, now it was up to them survive. As it was with Mitzy. He only wished them the best, knowing full well his energy was best saved on the problems he soon would be facing.

"..."

For there was a storm brewing in Iwa; would he be strong enough to quell it when the time came...? 

[ 300 / 300 ]

MADE BY ♔KOJIHIME

[Kousuke]

Kou continued to watch the Tsuchikage's movements. His refined posture and awareness alerted Kou to his experience in battle. This was no old man who sat in the shadows directing others to die. This person had seen combat. Perhaps more than Kou. His posture and attitude spoke of a service in the military.

Not necessarily from a village, but perchance in service to a Daimyo personally. It would not be uncommon. Regardless, the last act of the only government they had named him as the Tsuchikage, and so it must be respected. Traditionally the previous Tsuchikage would nominate her replacement, or in the event they were unable the council would determine who the successor would be.

Unfortunately both ways of determining how to elect a new leader would have taken time Iwa did not have. He listened respectfully as the man tried to pronounce his name and continued with a slightly polished speech, Kou tried not to feel self important. Truth was, he was well established in the village and the fact that this man hadn't known about him setting booby trapped buckets of Latrine water for fellow shinobi was probably in everyones best interest.

When he finished his remark about the sky, Kou focused more astutely on his surroundings for a moment. He then noted that the Tsuchikage continued with his speech noting that Iwa needed Kousuke for its recovery and that it was a broken thing. The fact that he likened it to a child seemed an apt analogy.

 "I agree. Iwagakure is dying. The past few months have not served her people well, and they need something they can believe in. If thats you, then it doesn't matter where you're from. So long as you can protect them." Kou remarks bluntly.

 He didn't care who held the position of Tsuchikage. So long as they always held the interest of Iwa in high regard, then he would respect them.  The man didn't seem to have ill intentions, so Kou would let his guard down around him for how. Not completely, as Kou remained ever cautious. He continued to watch the Tsuchikage call over an ANBU, one of his personal escorts Kou assumed, and whisper something to him. A moment later the ANBU left.

The Tsuchikage seemed to put on a display, Kou guessed, for the civilians who were now returning to work. He had watched the Tsuchikage bow slightly to him, which was unusual. For him, he had never had a higher ranked member of the village show him such respect.

It was refreshing.When the Tsuchikage spoke about meeting and speaking, he assumed he meant those of high enough rank or renown enough still within the village. There weren't many left. Some fled with the previous Tsuchikage and others fates were still unknown.

The fact was Iwa was still very unstable, and if another village were to attack, they might not be able to defend properly. Kou quickly shook the thought from his mind. He knew the mountain paths better than most, and the caverns dotting the mountainsides made for perfect cover. No. Iwagakure would live on. When the Tsuchikage finished speaking Kou again turned his direct attention to him.

"I understand Tsuchikage-sama. I hope when the time comes, that we may both help each other for Iwagakures promising future" Kou replied.

He broke protocol and stretched his arms out relaxing the tension along his shoulders which had been building up since the start of events. If nothing else, Kou had at least had met the new leader or Iwagakure.

"If you require nothing else from me, I need to attend to my family. It has been a long week, and I fear they may be troubled with these recent events" he states apologetically or his best impression of it.
Truth was, Kou was never very good with formalities and had always fit into the background. Had he not done what was required of him, he probably would not have made it as far as he had.

[☆ F ☆]

☆

"A VILLAGE OF SUPER-SOLDIERS!?"

The Jounin's response was certainly refreshing. He seemed to agree with the Uchiha regarding the village's state, and understood the angle F took when approaching the entire concept of Iwa's leadership. Being accepted as a foreigner that suddenly became a leader would not be easy, but if he proved to everyone how strong and dedicated he could be, then perhaps he'd win them over. It seemed there was a positive start with Kousuke. Given his skill and knowledge, he'd aid greatly in the reconstruction. F needed more men like Kousuke.

"No, please, go. A million apologies for keeping you from your loved ones!"

"Send word to the office once you've confirmed their safety. And if you need any help finding them, do not hesitate to ask..."

He hoped his expressed concern for his family would gain him even more trust from the Jounin, though by now it was obvious he held his attention. F knew he'd have to prove himself to those that reluctantly accepted him as their leader, and he had no problem with this. This was his first attempt. He'd raise hell to help find this man's family, if need be, though given the caliber of man Kousuke appeared to be, he doubted any real danger would befall his blood. They were most likely safe somewhere, hidden and tucked away from all this madness; it was understandable how an elapsed time spent away could worry them. F would wave at him, as well as prepare to make an exit himself. However, something occurred to him, which promoted one last comment before parting ways.

"I'm not gonna lie, Kou. I'm gonna need commanders. Hard working men and women that can help me train and secure Iwa's future. People like you."

"Even if we fix all these problems, it'll be a waste if we have no one to hand the baton off to. Help me ensure Iwa's future!"

F's plan was simple. Gather as many high ranking Iwa shinobi as possible, making them "commanders" in his army. Each commander would have their own cell, and operate as individuals units until the Tsuchikage called on them. Each commander would serve as a member of the royal team as well, that which accompanies the Tsuchikage during his foreign trips. Labeled the "Earth Shadows", this cell doubles as both the Tsuchikage's entourage, as well as a group of hopefuls able to take the seat of the newest Earth Shadow should it ever be needed. That's right - F wanted to produce a whole village of people that could easily become Kage. He did this with his soul, his spirit, but also, with his chakra.

"..."

You see, one of F's secrets - and the main reason he needed access to a world-class hospital like the one in Iwa - is that he is developing an intricate "Super Soldier" formula, one that results in a medicine that boosts battle performance beyond normal limits. Being a refined medic and a near-master at the craft, he finally figured out the mystery behind the art of successful transplants. And while he still needed more knowledge, he was fightingly close to the answers he had been seeking for. Once his medical knowledge was sufficient, he'd be able to put his theories to the test. Conveniently enough, he had just assumed control of an entire hidden village; if all was well, he'd soon be testing his formula on his own people, refining it until he held an army of unstoppable beasts. The truth, though buried within the Uchiha, would eventually come out. But for now, he'd remain focused, the restoration of Iwa being his number priority.

Couldn't have soldiers if there was nothing to fight for, right?

[ 300 / 300 ]

MADE BY ♔KOJIHIME

[Kousuke]

Kou watched the Tsuchikages movements and appreciated the concern for the well being of his family. Whether it was sincere or not, only time would tell. The apology that Tsuchikage offered surprised him for a moment. It was not often that such respect was shown to anyone of a lower rank. Perhaps This foreigner was different. It was true that Kou was used to a certain way things were handled in Iwa, yet this person seemed a better fit than the previous Tsuchikage.

"All is well with them I am sure. They are a resourceful people. Truth be told, they are likely more worried about myself than I am about them. They are civilians, smiths and shop keepers. To them, my job is dangerous and foolish yet they can not help worry." He explains with a wry smirk. The thought of his mother scolding him for not contacting them sooner made him chuckle a little. "Of all the dangers I have faced in my career, an upset mother is the most terrifying" he jokes.

When the Tsuchikage had made the comment about contacting the office Kou was genuinely impressed. This person had known him only a short time, but had shown restraint, empathy and compassion. It was refreshing.

Kou turned to leave when the Tsuchikage waved to him and was ready to be on his way before the other spoke again. When the Tsuchikage finished his statement Kou was taken aback. For the first time in a long time he was not prepared. He had been offered a high ranking position in Iwagakure by the Tsuchikage himself.

Sure, Kou had pondered the idea of quitting his childish pranks and trying to attain more prestige, but he always thought about the worry it might cause his mother. But this wasn't just a higher position. Without the council, a Commander was the highest ranking position aside from the Tsuchikage.

It was surely justified? Kousuke wasn't so sure. I mean yeah, he had battle experience, and knew the paths and caves around Iwagakure better than most. But such a high and prestigous rank? Had he truly earned all of this? He stood dumbfounded for a moment.

He began weighing his options and the benefits of being of such a rank. He would be close enough to the Tsuchikage to keep an eye on him, and judge him based on his evaluation. He would also be the one helping form the new policies and protocols for shinobi in the village. Had this been what Kenzou saw for him when he spoke of a great destiny?

Kousuke thought for a moment about the dangers that would undoubtedly come with such a rank, and what if this person also turned traitor. Would he be able to strike him down? Or would he, like the Valentines and his former sensei Saburo simply abandons his convictions for power.

He knew that he could no longer simply sit idly by and let others do the heavy lifting. He let out a sigh regretting almost immediately what he was about to say.

"Sure. Why not." He said rubbing the back of his head. He realized the informality of the situation and immediately changed "Sorry. So long as their isn't a ton of Paperwork I am on board with this" he stated smirking wryly. It then struck at Kou. What if this person perished in battle or of some unknown disease. Would he be relied upon to become the new Tsuchikage

What a headache that would be....

He thought quietly.

"Sorry if I seemed ungrateful. Truthfully no one has ever offered me something like this. I wasn't exactly sure how to respond. I try to remain behind the heavy lifters and let them do all the work. But I guess I can't just sit back and let things go to hell anymore." He remarks waiting in turn for the Tsuchikage to instruct him on what was required of him.

[☆ F ☆]

☆

"we depart for now, but we shalls see each other soon..."

As expected, Kou would arrive to a conclusion within moments of F's offer for a position as a leader in his new army, but only after he assured the Uchiha that those he cared for were just fine. Resourceful was an understatement, given conflicts such as the one Iwa just suffered are seen as perfect avenues for evil to surface and spread its malice. Perhaps Kousuke's entire family and inner circle was comprised of able fighters? It seemed the Shodaime's army grew more and more by the second.

"..."

The comment regarding his mother, though funny, tugged at a sad and buried memory he kept within, one that would remain so even if partially replayed for a moment - worry not, for he would have no break down here. His mom was long and gone, her memory buried like her body. Besides, it isn't always about him. As such, he'd snap out of the funk right quick. Giving the Jounin a nod of approval, F was genuinely pleased with the good news; a happy commander's family and friends makes for a happy commander. And he needed everyone at the top of their game. Needless to say, his demeanor changed rapidly.

"Excellent!!!"

"And why are you apologizing!? First off, that shit's a sign of weakness. And I know none of my Iwa nin are weak! Hah!"

"All kidding aside, words always fall short; if anything, apologize with your actions. And besides! You owe me nothing…"

"...just make sure you help mold Iwa into the best place it can be."

And with that, he'd prepare to depart. After placing his hands on the Jounin's shoulder for a moment, he'd nod and prepare to exit. His guard just informed him the necessary preparation for Asgard had begun; soon, it'd be time to convene and meet the rest of his commanders. It was an exciting time in Iwa, and F was glad to be a part of it.

"We're meeting at Asgard! - see you then...?"

He would not wait for a response. Instead, he spoke while waving and walking off with his guard,a friendly gesture to signify he wanted him to come but time was of the essence. Kousuke, huh? It appeared things were getting more and more interesting.

[ EXIT @ Asgard ]

MADE BY ♔KOJIHIME

[Kousuke]

♔ walk away

Kou sensed he had struck some kind of nerve when he mentioned his mother. He continued listening to the Tsuchikage as he made the remark about Iwa shinobi. He laughed a little bit at the thought of the Tsuchikage referring to him as "his" Iwa shinobi. No. Kou wasn't his shinobi. Iwa wasn't his.

This was a necessary evil and one that would benefit everyone in the end, but it was only that. He recognized the merit in his words about apologizing with actions and not owing the Tsuchikage anything. It was true, Kou owed this person nothing. Kou was content to sit in the background, and yet this person seemed hell bent on winning him over. Perhaps for some unknown conflict in some far away land. Who knew.

The Tsuchikage informed him they would be meeting at this "Asgard" which was undoubtedly some new location or some old location being revamped. Kou acknowledged the Tsuchikage as he left, and began walking away to go check on his family.

[Exit thread]

[Axcel]

Kousuke: 66 EXP

Fina: 59  EXP