Tobirama was a patient person. It may appear that he was impatient with the way he told Hashirama to shut up, and by now repeatedly yelled at Usagi, that he was indeed not very patient. But, that wasn't the case. He had no patience for ridiculous and silly situations or behavior, in this case it was marriage. "Do you know where he is?" Tobirama asked again, voice clipped. He didn't want to sound snappish.
"Probably in his main chamber." Usagi answered giving a small shrug afterwards. "I haven't really had the chance to sit still or stop since I've arrived here." She further explained seeing the expectant look in Tobirama's eyes. Which was very true since she arrived here things were in nonstop motion, only now were they beginning to slow down so she could take time out to get something to eat or send a message, which she did, earlier after leaving Hitomi.
"I see." The white haired Senju nodded understandingly. He may have been a little too snappish earlier, but he wasn't going to apologize, There were more important things to be taken care of, which didn't include two pompous nobles. He should have figured the damiyo would do something like this, they really couldn't do anything for themselves. "I'm going to talk to him personally. While I'm doing that I'd like you to get Hitomi and Tsugi. This won't take me longer than a minute at the most."
"It's Hitomi-hime-chan." Usagi corrected. Tobirama resisted the urge to pinch the bridge of his nose. He wasn't one to stroke egos or use honorifics, even if it was addressing a noble. However, to his relief Usagi gave a quick nod in confirmation. "I can do that for you!" Usagi beamed. She liked to annoy him, the hime-chan seemed to really get on his nerves, but she could be serious as well, like now. Hitomi was going to be happy, well maybe, her hands were still pretty battered, and unfortunately she didn't know medical ninjutsu.
"Good." Tobirama nodded, pleased. They walked in peaceful silence the rest of the way, neither uttering a mutter or a whisper. It had been a long time since either of them had seen each other, it felt like forever at least for Usagi. She set a hand against the back of her neck, Tobirama probably didn't feel the same way. She kept this to herself, no need to ruin such a good moment. Tobirama slowed his pace, narrowing his eyes just slightly as he searched the perimeter of the estate, there. He thought, picking up a small chakra, not very impressive deep within the estate. "It seems that he is in his main chamber."
"Lucky guess." Usagi gave a small laugh at the look Tobirama shot her. His lips turned up just a little, and her directed his attention back on the estate. Without another word or standing on ceremony he entered with no hesitation, turning left right away. He didn't know the ins and outs of this estate, but he knew where the damiyo was, so winding halls and spiraling staircases were all but for decoration, he continued at a steady pace turning and banking from corner to corner passing up dozens of rooms at a time. Usagi had vanished from his side a few minutes ago, he had taken notice but continued on his route as she did the same.
Which led him to the door he stood before. Like everything else in the estate it was decorated grandly and even had some carvings. It always amazed him to no end how far nobles went to flaunt their wealth. Biting back a sigh, he prepared himself for his next task. Telling the damiyo there would be no wedding and he was taking Hitomi. This wouldn't be hard, annoying though, very much so. He didn't like arguing or getting into long winded debates, and from what Usagi said of this damiyo he'd be in for one great debate. He pushed open the double doors, eyes widening slightly as he peered into the room, eyes spotting the throne which the damiyo sat on. "Excuse me?" The damiyo raised an eyebrow giving Tobirama a curious look. "Just who are you? I don't believe we've had the pleasure to meet yet."
"Tobirama Senju."
The damiyo's eyes widened briefly, momentarily shocked but he quickly composed himself. The Tobirama Senju was present within his personal chamber at this very second. It was almost too hard to believe, but here he was standing with his arms crossed and ruby eyes narrowed. It was almost as if he owned the place, which just wasn't the case. He owned all of this, not Tobirama. "Ahh, so it is you." The damiyo spoke with pointed disinterest, standing up from his perch and making his way down towards the younger man. "Forgive me if I seem disinterested at this moment, your reputation far surpasses you... However, I am very busy right now and don't have time to just chit and chat with the likes of you."
Tobirama smirked. "Neither do I." His voice seemed to shake off of the walls, echoing throughout the room. "You see something has come up that is very important. You needn't know the details since they do not concern you." Tobirama stated matter of factly, eyeing the damiyo up and down. He sure walked around the a fat head despite his appearance, he really needed to get off of his ass and do something. "I will not mince words with you. Here is how things are going to go. I will be taking my leave. Usagi, Tsugi, and Hitomi will be coming with me as well. Your marriage, whatever you had planned is cancelled as of right now."
"Who the hell do you think you are?" The damiyo asked pointedly, glaring at him. If looks could kill Tobirama would likely be a pile of ashes right now. "You will not be taking Hitomi she is to be my-" the damiyo continued angrily but Tobirama halted him.
"I don't care what she is to be." Tobirama stated with firmness. He was staring to grow annoyed. "Hitomi is under the protection of the Subatsu as well as the Senju..." Tobirama crossed his arms a bit tighter. "How unfortunate for you but fortunate for Hitomi. I am not going to sit here and argue with you about this, I've already stated what I'm going to do." Tobirama held back his smirk, he watched the damiyo's face contort with anger and fury, it must have been a severe blow to his pride not getting his way and being told what to do. Nobles tended to be like that. Spoiled, whiny, downright ridiculous. "You have no choice or say in the matter..."
"You've got a lot of nerve, shinobi!" The damiyo spat, disrespect evident in his tone. It was only natural though, he hired shinobi clans to handle whatever he wanted them to handle. As far as he and other nobles were concerned shinobi were expendable even if they hailed from the Senju, Uzumaki, or Hageshii. They were to be used and once their usefulness was over with they were paid. "You aren't taking my Hitomi!" He hissed, sneering at Tobirama as he snapped his fingers. Like clockwork dozens of men surrounded Tobirama swords pointed and eyes narrowed. "Now what are you going to do?"
Tobirama closed his eyes, a low sigh rumbling from his throat. "I knew it'd come to this..." He mused softly, releasing his mental restraints. The ground and air seemed to shimmer before vibrating rapidly, gravity increased and the temperature in the room dropped dramatically. Tobirama stood in the same spot, a cloud of invisible chakra surging off of his form that threatened to send cracks spreading through the floor. The armed men the damiyo sent out shivered some dropping to their knees from the sheer force expelled from Tobirama, others tried to put a brave front and soon faltered. "I don't like repeating myself." Tobirama stated, voice tinged with impatience. "I am taking Hitomi and that is final!"
The damiyo held himself fast, standing his ground. He was infuriated that Tobirama would firstly demand such things, but to go on and say that he would be taking the things he demanded was a whole new level. He sucked in a breath, struggling to breathe. There was a crushing force bearing down on him that wasn't present before everything from his shoulders to lung felt like they were being pancaked. Just as he adjusted to the oppressive force, another blast this time twice as strong crashed against him and this time he was brought to his knees. "Fine! Fine! Take the bitch!" The damiyo snapped, inwardly pleading that the crushing force go away.
Tobirama slowed his chakra down to a minimal output, the room returning to how it once was, and the men that were surrounding him backed up steadily shooting each other weary glances. Tobirama gave a small nod, it wasn't the yes he was looking for but it would do, he swiveled around so his back was facing them and made his way out of the chamber. It only took a minute and twenty seconds, but at least it was finished now. He turned his focus onto Usagi's chakra-which he could pinpoint like second nature now and made his way towards her location.
Meanwhile back in the chamber the damiyo was fuming, completely livid. Though he made no outburst, still gathering his wits after experiencing just a fraction of Tobirama's power-the white haired man made no move simply exerted some of his chakra. The damiyo was certain he would have killed all the men he sent after him without breaking a sweat, but Tobirama wasn't one to resort to violence right away. "My lord, what should we do about him?" A soldier asked, glaring at the spot where Tobirama had been. "Showing such disrespect, you should have his head!"
"Don't bother with it." The damiyo said waving his hand with a scowl. "Someone like him can't be defeated, even if there were a thousand more of you." He smirked slightly. "Send word to the Nara, Yamanaka, and Shimura clan. I am offering a large sum for their assistance. If they find any Senju especially that Tobirama don't let him leave alive!"
"Right away sir!" The soldier was about ready to take off but that damiyo's voice halted him.
"Oh, and include the Hyuga clan as well." The damiyo smirked again. "We'll see how high and mighty that asshole is now..."
"Yes sir." The soldier ran off this time.
Tobirama made his way out of the estate not spotting Tsugi, Usagi, or Hitomi at all during his walk out. He figured she was waiting for him at the gate with the other two, ready to depart as soon as possible. That would be once he got there of course. He walked in relative silence spotting Usagi with Tsugi flanking her with Hitomi situated on his back. "Good, you're here." He stated, eyes relaxing.
"Where else would I be?" Usagi asked, titling her head in confusion.
"I don't know..." Tobirama drawled walking passed her. "Stuffing your face with a sickening amount of sweets."
"Now just hold on!" Usagi fired back.
"That will wait." Tobirama stated, casting a smirk towards her way which only made her scowl more. If she were immature she'd start stomping her foot, but instead settled on a deep scowl. "We will focus on getting back as fast as possible."
"So, I can leave?" Hitomi asked, daring to hope.
"Sure can little lady, now better hang on tight." Tsugi answered.
Izuna sat down bored. Anxious. It had been about an hour and a half since Madara shut the door, the fact he was doing the torturing was enough to make even him grimace. He was more surprised that Mikito was the one to come up with this method, from his observations she was a soft spoken and kind, as Madara called her a bleeding heart. That aside he was starting to grow anxious, the longer they waited the more time the Shainingu had time to act-they could be on the move right now even.
He let out a loud sigh, folding his arms over his chest. He was patient, yes, but in situations like these every second counted. Hopefully this method worked and they got the information they needed. He still thought someone from an inn was housing the shinobi and their weapons, as he said before it wasn't uncommon, and actually happened quite a bit. Izuna was all but ready to doze off-if only for a few minutes, but sudden flares of chakra alerted him and he was up and bolting towards the location in a heart beat. He spotted a dark haired man running up to him-one of his own. Izuna immediately stood up eyes taking note the dirt and blood spotting him. "Izuna-sama. The Shainingu attacked and took back their weapons!"
"What!?" Izuna snapped, brows furrowing. It was uncharacteristic for him shout so loud however given the situation it wasn't uncalled for. "You were supposed to guard it!" Izuna scowled, picking up his pace as the man struggled after him. "Did they get all of their weapons?"
"Yes..."
"Damn it." Izuna hissed, this wasn't good.
"There were too many..." The man said dropping his head in shame. He could have easily handled a few men ten or twelve at the most, and there were also others guarding it with him, but the Shainingu swarmed them. It was easily fifty or eighty against sixteen. To make matters worse Tomoyuki was leading the charge. Izuna took a breath, letting it out a moment later. There was no sense in getting mad about it, he'd just need to do something about it. Now there was solid evidence the Shainingu were making their move. And they were very desperate since they attacked them inside of the village itself. "I am-"
"Get patched up." Izuna said, cut him off. "If you haven't done so already relay this to Mikito." He added critically.
The man nodded walking away from him. Izuna pressed his back into one of the wooden pillars, shutting his eyes. He was anticipating something like this would happen, one would always think of all the factors. But, for them to be so bold again showed just how desperate they truly were. And, there was always the Senju and Subatsu who had to be close by given their last battle took place a few hundred miles or so from here.
Madara needs to hurry up!
Another five minutes passed. Madara still hadn't left the room. Izuna stood up walking down the pathway, he needed to be productive, do something productive, anything but sitting down and waiting. The first person he searched for was Mikito naturally. He thought she would have been rushing to him to get more answers, she was exuberant in that sense, but she hadn't. Which struck him with surprise, but perhaps she already knew and was taking steps to deal with it at this very moment. He came to a stop just as he reached the outside of the estate, spotting Mikito speaking to Shin, and the younger man take off in a different direction. Izuna walked towards her. "I take it you know?"
"Yes." Mikito gave a small nod, her face taking on a grim expression. She turned to face him fully, easing the grim expression away the best she could. "I've already sent word to my brother. He should be here at any minute now..." She paused, tilting her head sideways as she peered at Izuna. "How are things coming with Madara?"
"Same as before." Izuna irritably sighed, resisting the urge to press his hand to his forehead. Sumichi was beyond stubborn. Shinobi were trained to never show emotions, emotions were a weakness to be exploited... But, it had easily been more than an hour since Madara shut the door. Izuna was no expert in candles or things like that, however he knew that was was unbearably hot. It'd stick to one's skin like a second layer and one would have to peel it off, but it'd be excruciating and more importantly the wax would flow of its own accord. Sumichi was indeed stubborn or had an inhuman tolerance for pain. "What about your sister? Isn't she coming?"
"He's a stubborn one." Mikito said frowning slightly, but brightened just slightly when he asked about Ahiko. It was a welcome change of topic, she had been lost in her thoughts prior. None of them were good and unfortunately she was entertaining some of them. "My sister is on a mission to the Sand country with Yuko, they left in the wee hours of the morning. The Sarutobi are hassling the merchants and traders coming and going-it's lead to the village itself starting to suffer from a lack of the supplies they bring." Mikito informed the younger Uchiha. "It's a basic mission. Take out their camp and gather any information that they can as well as making sure the routes are completely clear."
Izuna nodded stiffly. He was worried, he wasn't sure why, he knew it was out of place, but he was worried. Worried about Yuko. She was getting intense training he knew that from the most recent time he seen her. But, he thought back to their very first fight, she was so inexperienced and young-skilled of course but she lacked experience. She had survived the mission to the Water country, a feat Madara was severely doubtful that she'd manage. But, the Sarutobi were powerful in their own right and weren't to be taken lightly-and they were 'friendlier' meaning they had no qualms about allying themselves with one or several clans. "I see." Izuna replied, he'd mention something later.
Mikito looked at him, eyebrow raised. Was Izuna worried about her? Well, it was very touching at the very least, Yuko would be happy to know she was on his mind. However, Ahiko was more than capable and wouldn't let anything happen to her. She opened her mouth to speak on the subject more, but noted Izuna turning his head sharply glaring into the distance, and likewise she turned her head. A few moments later not to Mikito's surprise, slightly to Izuna's surprise Souji was pacing towards them four people behind him. Three men and one woman. "You called for reinforcements?" Izuna questioned, titling his head at her.
"Yes. Madara and I agreed that it was a good idea."
"Well, there's a first time for everything." Izuna quipped.
Mikito scowled at him, what was that supposed to mean? She would have started to ask several questions, but she put her focus onto Souji and the people flanking him. The first and tallest being Isami. Isami was tall, light skinned, and had long flowing brown hair that stopped off around his shoulders, he held a calm but blank gaze and his eyes were a deep brown. The second was Isamu, he wasn't a brother of Isami though their names were practically similar. He was a bit shorter than Isami and had dark tan skin, long black hair reached the middle of his back and was kept up in a ponytail. His eyes were rather big and were a dark brown almost black.
Hiro was the shortest of the three males, while Isamu and Isami were both easily in the six foot range, Hiro stood at five foot seven. He had fair toned, but peachy toned skin and light brown messy hair that covered her ears and went down to the top of his shoulders. Lastly there was Misaka. Misaka had a busty but slender build, she had light skin and stood at about five foot two. Her eyes were a light shade of blue, contrasting sharply with her dark blue hair that reached the end of her tailbone kept up in a high ponytail. All four wore the same outfit consisting of a dark blue or purple haori, black or gray hakama, and white tabi and zori. Of course they were all suited in armor and ready to fight. All four of them were also ten or more years older than Souji and Mikito.
Izuna stared at the newcomers, but not with scrutiny like Madara would. That was one of the many things that set him apart from his elder, Izuna wasn't quick to judge a person or group. He was more curious than anything, Misaka had a very unique appearance-who had blue hair? Izuna could think of one or two clans at best that had a propensity for blue hair and even at that it was rare. He shook his head, moving the thought aside. "I've already got a gist of what is going on, including most recent. " Souji said looking at Izuna for a long moment and turned his focus onto Mikito.
Saves me from having to do a lot of explaining. Izuna thought with some relief. He wasn't sure where he would even begin, it was like a laundry list of things that were happening and needed to be done. Luckily explaining and recounting events wasn't on the list. Which brought him back to his very first thought... Madara really needed to hurry up! "I already have Shin taking a group and doing some patrolling of the village." Mikito spoke up, the long silence a bit uncomfortable. "As for Madara, we're still waiting on that." She finished. Souji nodded, stuffing his hands in his hakama's pockets. It appeared that everything was hanging on this one person they captured...
"Izuna if you could go into one of the meeting rooms." Souji said. Waiting around was never his thing to do, they'd need to act fast and efficiently. "I'll meet you there in one of the many meeting halls or rooms." He turned his focus onto his sister. "If you could, wait for Madara. Once he is finished bring him to the meeting room so we can discuss our next course of action." Mikito gave a small nod, she would rather do something that required more effort. But, then again she will be dealing with Madara and that took a lot of effort.
"I'll see you soon." Mikito said, going back towards the estate.
"Will do." Izuna nodded, happy to be doing something other than sitting around. With them gone that just left Souji and Misaka present, Hiro, Isami, and Isamu all headed to the estate just several minutes ago.
"Souji-san." Misaka spoke for the first time, voice very soft. "If they attacked so boldly that can only mean they are hiding somewhere within this village..." She shook her head, a severe feeling of foreboding casting itself over her. It wasn't favorable, normally when shinobi fought they were out in the open away from civilians, the fights in a village happened now and again, but they weren't a daily occurrence. The Shainingu were making a very dangerous move in doing this, branding themselves as enemies and nothing short of the damiyo as well as the Uchiha and Domou. "It'd be a good idea to prepare for battle, as well as scoping the area to find the place where they could be housing themselves. There's at least four dozen inns and bathhouses here we need to narrow it down to at least a dozen if not half a dozen."
Souji gave a small nod. "I'll let you handle it." He said, gesturing towards the estate. "Mitsuki is here as well, take her along with you."
"Yes, sir." Misaka gave a small bow and raced for the estate.
Mikito found herself waiting, which was to be expected. She was a patient woman, everyone had their limits to which they could take-once they reached that point it was done. She wasn't any different though her limit was rather well if she had to say so herself. However, she started to grow anxious as minutes turned into hours, her eyes stared at the door that was locked, Madara had been in there four a good three hours now.
How stubborn was this Sumichi to not talk? She sighed shaking her head, too damn stubborn for his own good. She fished the whetting stone from her pocket and slowly, carefully unsheathed her sword from its scabbard and began the process of sharpening the blade. It had already been sharpened, it was sharp, the light literally glaring off of its surface, but this always calmed her down and kept her attention focused rather then all around. She should have been the one to group everyone up not Souji and Izuna, but she was the leader as was Madara so this was better to do.
She ran the stone across her blade very slowly finishing with a swift push as she reached the tip. She didn't imagine there would be a day when the Domou and Uchiha made an alliance-for that matter the Subatsu and Senju. The Domou never had any conflict with the Uchiha ironically enough whether it was the land separating them or the routes they took neither crossed the other's path. She couldn't say the same for the Senju as of recently and centuries ago they found themselves in conflict. She had nothing against the Uchiha, in fact she found them to be really amazing in combat, especially Madara, but the Domou were always only reliant on themselves something they shared with the Uchiha.
The Subatsu were also lone wolves, a stark contrast to the Senju who had been in an alliance with the Uzumaki since she can remember.
Things were starting to change very rapidly. Before the Uchiha would never consider having an alliance...
She turned towards the creaking sound, noting that it was indeed the door, and Madara stepped out with his brows furrowed and lips creased to a thin line. He looked around for a second, spotting Mikito, but not Izuna, surprise flashed across his features once before he composed himself and stepped towards Mikito as she sheathed her sword putting the whetting stone back in her pocket. Anxious and hopeful Mikito closed the distance between them with quick strides. "Tell me you got that fool to crack." She said fixing him with a stern gaze. "You got something right?" She asked once Madara didn't answer and continued to stare at her.
"Gather everyone in one of the meeting rooms." Madara said with a clipped tone, picking back up his stride as Mikito chased after him. "This is something that everyone needs to hear."
"Already did." Mikito said, catching the look on his face she smiled in triumph.
"Your brother-"
"He's already here. Everyone is waiting for us." She stated unable to hide her triumphant smile. If Madara thought she was incompetent or spent all of her time spacing out-which she did do at times, but not all the time.. He was severely mistaken. Madara nodded stiffly as he gestured for her to lead the way, which she did without question. There was just something about how tense he was that made her listen, she wasn't afraid of him, but what could he have found out that put him so on edge? She wanted to ask him, not used to his rigid posture but his regal and downright arrogant stride, but she kept it to herself. She would find out soon. Mikito opened the door of the estate, moving towards the closest room.
She was glad to see only Souji and Izuna present. They seemed to work together rather well, and it'd be better to discuss this problem among themselves. Mikito looked at Madara who held the same expression as before, nodding for her to enter first, and she did. She found a seat a few inches from Souji as Madara sat down just a few inches from Izuna. "You're looking tense, brother." Izuna commented, half jokingly.
Madara didn't retort, normally he would have, but instead he just lowered his head until his chin was almost touching his chest. He was blunt and direct, that's the only way he knew how to be. It should be easy to tell them the disturbing news he learned from Sumichi, but he found it rather difficult... It was difficult for him to even believe. "Souji." He said directing his attention to him. "I'm glad you could make it early." He figured it was right to say, Souji's timing couldn't be more perfect.
"I would have gotten here faster, but there was a band of Akimichi shinobi that were blocking a path." He said it as if it were just another day, which it was just another day. Cutting down two dozen or so pests that tried to delay him. He wasn't as patient as Mikito or merciful they were dead the second he spotted them about to attack him and his unit. Izuna took note that there wasn't a scratch on Souji despite the skirmish that happened not even a few hours ago. "I am sorry for the delay sister."
Mikito waved it off. "You're here now." She gave a small smile, turning her focus onto Madara. "Now that we have that out of the way..."
Madara pursed his lips. "The weapons are indeed for an invasion-an invasion of a massive scale." He started, the room falling silent. "But, that isn't even the beginning of it. They not only plan to invade on a massive scale, but they also plan on setting fire to the entire village... In the chaos of it all they'll storm the estate, kidnap the damiyo and then kill him by beheading him." This got mixed reactions, but none of them were good, not even mildly. Izuna was shocked and stunned, almost not believing what he was hearing, Mikito exhaled briskly folding her arms tightly across her chest, and Souji scowled. Madara was scowling as well. Who the hell did the Shainingu think they were to try and even commit something like this?
"You have to be shitting me..." Izuna looked at Madara in disbelief.
"Why would I joke about something like this, Izuna?" Madara looked at him with a narrowed eye. Izuna opted to stay quiet which Madara appreciated.
A tense silence fell over the four of them, neither daring to speak. Souji finally broke the tense silence. "If they're planning a large invasion then chances are they will strike tonight. However there is one advantage that we have over them." He glanced around, waiting for someone to finish the statement. Souji shrugged mentally continuing on with his explanation. "They don't know Sumichi confessed." This caused everyone's eyes to widen, even Madara showed a bit of surprise. "If they had known he confessed then they would have ran back to their compound, but instead they chose to stay somewhere in this village. My guess is... They will launch their attack and try to save Sumichi, which in turn will bring them here..."
Izuna looked a bit on edge. "That's not good." He muttered.
Souji nodded in agreement. "We should make the first move and catch them off guard. We'll need to gather everyone we have here at the moment that is ready to fight and not wounded."
"I am in full agreement with you." Madara said. He was half expecting Souji to mention a truce or something of that sort. It didn't seem like something Souji would do, but he was related to Mikito and some of her bad habits could have imprinted themselves on him as well. Not to say Mikito was unpleasant she was rather pleasant, and very strong-the only thing that mattered to him. Even if she could be a bleeding heart.
"We're going to need the damiyo's consent to search the inns and establishments of this village." Izuna spoke up, advancing the conversation further. "We have hard evidence, but for polite sake it'd be a good idea to get his consent." Izuna put some emphasis on the last part, knowing full well Madara didn't want to ask or even consider asking, and Mikito bluntly put wanted to rip the damiyo's head clean from his shoulders. Hopefully they could keep their emotions in check long enough.
"I can do that for you." Mikito volunteered, eager to do something besides sit and wait.
"I will be coming with you." Madara said not even a second later, and to his amusement Mikito turned to him with a shocked expression. As if he didn't trust her to see this through-that wasn't the case. He didn't trust that she wouldn't try tearing the damiyo limb from limb. He smirked slightly as he eyed her carefully. "Oh, don't go giving me that look. I need to make sure you don't lose your temper and go on a rampage. I want the fool alive long enough to give us the payment."
Izuna snickered. "I don't like his chances."
"Izuna!" Madara said a bit snappishly. "Quiet!"
"I'm just saying!"
"And I'm saying be quiet!"
"Yeah, I'm the one that will start going on a rampage..." Mikito muttered with a rather sour expression directed at Madara.
"Let's go." Madara said, standing up swiftly. "We'll meet back here once we're finished with this."
"We'll be waiting." Souji said giving a small nod.
Tunoichi was a prideful man. He had pride in his clan, in himself. But, he was also a smart man. He didn't take an unnecessary risk, he couldn't afford to make a miscalculation all because of his immense pride. Which is how and why he found himself where he was right now despite his prior dealings. Syrus, Haji, and Hashirama sat across from him-Syrus and Haji both holding serious gazes while Hashirama's expression was much softer, though there was still weariness and readiness in it.
He wasn't expecting the red carpet to be ruled out. He refused the truce indefinitely and even threatened the village-which was under their protection at this moment. It wasn't a wise move, but emotions got the better of one, especially given the situation with the Hageshii it had always been tense, but recently it was getting to be savage. To make matter even more worse Tomoyuki was riling up all of his kinsmen, and while many listened to him and heeded his words, others leaned towards Tomoyuki. In short there was rift forming.
But, that couldn't be the worse of the worst. No that would be Tomoyuki's bold plan which would no doubt erupt into nothing but death and destruction. Attacking a village wasn't unheard of, but at the right time of course. Tomoyuki was treading on thin ice, The Uchiha and Domou were stirring constantly on patrol. Pulling back now would save just not him and Tomoyuki-but their whole clan from utter destruction. He sighed turning his focus outward instead of inward and stared at his company for lack of a better term. "I assume you all already have a good reason as to why I am here..."
"Hopefully it's not to drag this village into war." Syrus responded without any hesitation. He didn't trust Tomoyuki or Tunoichi. He tried, Hashirama tried, Haji tried, and Tobirama tried to get him to see reason. Tunoichi or Tomoyuki didn't see reason. Their intentions were made clear, and quite honestly Tunoichi was lucky he wasn't down three limbs and on the brink of death right now.
"I don't think he wants that. Why would he come here then?" Hashirama asked, genuinely curious. He also shot Syrus a look for being so direct with his response, and Syrus just regarded with a glance before shrugging. The tan skinned Senju looked at Tunoichi taking note of the accentuated creases on his forehead and face in general, okay so Syrus made a good point. He wouldn't deny that. But, Tunoichi was here for other reasons, definitely not violence. "It's clear that you don't want conflict, so tell me why did you come here? It looks like you're having it rough since our meeting..." Hashirama gave him his full attention.
Tunoichi let out an angry sigh. "It's Tomoyuki..." This got the trio's attention in front of him, they leaned forward to listen better. "About a day ago-maybe a few one of our own were captured by the Uchiha and Domou. His name is Sumichi. I don't know why they were near the Grass village borders, Tomoyuki was sketchy on the details. It was just supposed to be a simple mission, gather our weapons and strength then launch an attack on a nearby clan." The wrinkles on his forehead creased, and he took a generous sip of the tea that was provided for him, the brew somewhat calming his nerves. "It wasn't until I learned that Sumichi had been captured and Tomoyuki was planning a full scale invasion of the Grass village what the mission truly was."
Haji folded his arms over his chest letting out a long sigh. Things were never simple were they? "What's Tomoyuki's plan?"
"He... Plans on setting fire to the Grass vilage, massacring the Uchiha and the Domou in the midst of the chaos and moving with force to the palace where he will kill the damiyo by beheading him..." Tunoichi felt as if he were sick as he said this. There was always the feeling of reveling the plan to those that were not his own kin, but he couldn't believe it when it came from Tomoyuki's mouth. Not only was it ridiculous by any standard, it was dangerous and would lead their clan to destruction. He took another sip of the liquid, even though it was getting cold he swallowed it with a quiet gulp, and looked at the trio once again. "I'm doing everything in my power to prevent this from happening... If this was to happen then..."
"The Shainingu will fall to their doom without fail." Haji finished dryly.
"That's outrageous!" Hashirama exclaimed, throwing both hands on the table with surprising speed. "You have to convince him not to do it!"
"That is actually why I came here." Tunoichi said. "I thought you'd come with me to-"
"Bring Tomoyuki here and then we'll talk. We are not going anywhere, and that includes you Hashirama." Syrus said with a frown, giving Hashirama a very pointed look that dared him to even try and object. Hashirama may have wanted to go running out and saving this sorry ass, but he wasn't going to do such a thing. They had bigger things to worry about and a fruitless as well as baseless mission would only be a waste of time. Time that was used for something much better and worthwhile.
"But, Syrus you heard him!" Hashirama said, voice rising.
"I did. We'll talk, but here. Not there." Syrus grated out, annoyance starting to bubble from within.
"The Uchiha and Domou have captured Sumichi, they are aware the Shainingu are making aggressive moves. If you were to leave now that'd put you in danger." Haji said. Hashirama wasn't going to let it drop and neither was Syrus, but he could understand. Hashirama wanted to negate a disaster, but that just simply couldn't be done, Syrus wanted to keep the focus here which was the best thing to do. "If you really wish to prevent this from happening then bring Tomoyuki here as fast as you can." Haji stared right in Tunoichi's eyes. "We'll be waiting."
"Are you sure you aren't able to come?" Tunoichi looked at Hashirama.
Hashirama shook his head. "I'm certain..." He said, though his voice sounded strained.
Tunoichi nodded understandingly. "Very well, I understand your need for caution. I will be back." Tunoichi put the cup down, standing up to his full height and moving for the door.
"This isn't good we should go to the village." Hashirama said after several silent minutes passed.
Syrus looked at him as if he were crazy. "Us being there would only make things worse!" He tried not to yell, and instead snapped. Hashirama's need to save lives was going to cost twice as much lives than what he saved. This was out of his hands, out of theirs, they had their own problems to worry about. "We'll be forced to fight all three clans off, there would be a slew of pedestrians that are cut down because of that one skirmish alone...That isn't including the dozens more going on at the same exact time."
"But..." Hashirama scowled. He didn't like this situation not one bit.
"I understand your concern, but it is Tunoichi's concern and his problem to solve. Not yours, Hashirama." Haji said. "All we can do is wait for him to return. It's out of our hands now."
Sighing loudly Hashirama slumped back into his seat. "I guess you have a point..."
The heat was close to unbearable. No it was unbearable. Okay, okay so maybe she was being a little dramatic she had been living in the Fire country her entire life so a little heat was nothing out of the ordinary. However, there was humidity to go along with that and at the Domou compound there was usually more often than not some sort of moisture that went along with the heat.
Yuko felt a bit silly for having such a thought, but she couldn't help it. None of things mentioned above were present as she kept pace with Ahiko. The desert was hot, barren hot and the air was so dry! She couldn't feel how dry it was since she was clothed from head to toe, quite literally, but she knew it was dry. The sand was hot scorching the bottom of her sandals, and the cloth with which she regarded with question was wrapped neatly around her entire head-somehow Ahiko found a way to keep her hair in place and neat while helping her out.
That said there was no sand getting into her eyes, nose, or mouth. Yuko glanced around her surroundings, her vision cut off by the cloth, but she was able to pick up the most minute things with her Sharingan. Still, nothing could compare to a full scope of vision, she'd just have to deal. She was hoping to run into a small village with a small population or just a ditch somewhere so she could rest, but it wasn't that simple. Ahiko showed no intention of stopping and there were no places to just stop at. She returned back to her sightseeing of waves upon endless wave of sand when Ahiko's voice cut into her thoughts. "Have the bucket?"
"Yeah." Yuko replied, glancing at the item which Ahiko purchased before. She wasn't at all sure why Ahiko had purchased it in the first place, it wasn't large enough to store anything worthwhile but also wasn't small enough to put into her pocket. Which was why she was carrying it at this very moment, Ahiko asked her to and Yuko couldn't find it in herself to say no. She felt indebted to Ahiko, the curly haired woman had befriended her upon first sight, trained her relentlessly, and even let her stay in the cottage. "You mind telling me what it's for?" Yuko was growing more and more curious as time dragged on.
"It's a surprise." Ahiko said with a cheeky grin. Yuko pouted, though her pout couldn't be seen. "We're getting close to the spot now, just have it ready."
"Okay..." Yuko agreed a bit grudgingly. What was the big surprise that she couldn't be told what the bucket was going to be used for? It wasn't unusual for Ahiko to say such a thing and keep a secret, she had done the same while she was training her to hone the suiton, which she may add was the reason why both of them were soaked to the bone. Yuko clenched her fingers around the top of the item, a conscious action to assure that she indeed still had the bucket.
"Well, can you tell me what it is we're putting in here?" Yuko questioned, curiosity getting the better of her.
"Fruit."
"Fruit?!" Yuko asked completely shocked.
"Fruit." Ahiko nodded.
"In the middle of a desert?"
"Yup!"
Yuko laughed softly to herself, she didn't believe it. Not one bit, fruit needed water to survive and more importantly something to grow in or on. She was no gardener by any means, but she knew that a desert was no place for crops, the only thing that was around here was sand and more sand a groupings of hundreds if not thousand of cactus's. If she wasn't careful she was going to wrack her brain thinking about it! When had she been so deep in her thoughts anyways!? She shook her head forcing the thought away and turning her focus back onto the sand.
If getting close meant another miles long walk then they were getting close. The sun had finally set-a much welcomed relief. But, the wind speed definitely picked up and changed directions turning into a much colder wind. In addition the sand itself seemed to get a bit colder despite the heat steadily rising from it, but what caught her attention the most was above. There were stars everywhere! She focused upward, amazed at the breathtaking sight she was beholding for the first time. She had seen stars at the Uchiha and Domou compound, but it wasn't as dramatic as this, she felt like she was immersed in the night. If only Izuna were here with her...
Yuko shook her head, where had that come from?
"Okay! We're here!" Ahiko announced stopping abruptly and quickly unwrapped the cloth from around her head, letting out a breath of relief. Yuko stopped copying her action and let out her own sigh of relief. A quick look around and nothing seemed different from before besides the fact they were around a grouping of cactus's, she turned her attention upward resisting the urge to let herself fall, but did so anyway. Her lips parted as the wind caressed her hot skin, almost making her breathless. It felt so amazing! "I'm going to be over here." Yuko nodded peering at Ahiko who took the bucket and situated it near one of cacti taking a seat on the sand.
"You want some water?" Yuko asked as she took a swig from her canister.
"Sure." Ahiko moved next to her, taking the canister when Yuko was finished and took her own swig. Water definitely tasted good in the middle of the desert. "Thanks Yuko-chan! Ahiko beamed a smile at her, to which Yuko could only nod at letting a small giggle escape her lips. It had taken time to get used to Ahiko's bubbly and exuberant personality, but now she was very humorous. Yuko took another swig as she got up and moved over to Ahiko, plopping down next to her.
"So?"
Ahiko sighed dramatically as always when she was about to or did spoil a secret. "I guess I can tell you now since we're here." Ahiko resigned, but still couldn't hold down her smile. "You see in this landscape there is an extremely rare fruit that grows. It only grows one night out of every year, it is the same night, but the fruit has to be harvested at that time. If it isn't harvested at that time and morning comes around the fruits will wilt, storing water and sugars year round until it's time for it to happen next year." Ahiko spoke animatedly using her hands to emphasize her point. It was extremely fascinating for someone like her who was into plants and gardening. She hoped Ahiko would share the same enthusiasm she did about the subject.
"I still don't believe it." Yuko shook her head. "What is this fruit called?"
"Dragon fruit." Ahiko replied, pointing to a cactus that was give or take ten or twenty feet away from them. Yuko strained, it looked like an ordinary cactus. Nothing too special about it. A moment later her eyes widened and her mouth dropped open in shock as she spotted a light red almost purple sphere growing from one of the spines.
"You're kidding me!?" Yuko looked at Ahiko for confirmation.
"You are seeing something very few get to." Ahiko clapped her hands, looking rather giddy. She moved towards the cactus and carefully plucked the fruit from the spine where several more were already booming with life. "Try it." Ahiko said, tossing the fruit. Yuko caught it easily enough examining it with a raised eyebrow. It was light red with a mix of purple and completely smooth on the outside, kind of like an apple, but it had no stem. After a moment of closer examination she shrugged and took a bite out of it. Her mouth was flooded by flavor and moisture, especially moisture it was as if a dam of water had burst inside of her mouth followed by a torrent of sweet oh so sweet fruit, was it fruit? It was definitely sweet and savory. "This is good!" Yuko didn't hold back her surprise or joy as she took another bite and then another until was completely gone. "Let me help you."
Yuko moved to Ahiko who was busy setting down fruit after fruit into her bucket, the curly haired woman gave a small nod. So, this was why Ahiko had purchased the bucket. If she had told her this was the reason Yuko would have probably laughed and called her crazy, but evidently she would have been wrong completely. Yuko took another fruit and without hesitation sunk her teeth into it almost moaning in delight. "Now don't go stuffing your face! Help me out here." Ahiko chastised, and Yuko turned to see that she was watching her tear into the fruit. Normally she'd blush, but right now she didn't care, this fruit was just too damn good!
"Kay!" Yuko said happily, plopping down a fruit into the bucket while sinking her teeth into another one.