"What would you know about that boy? That kid has a percious thing he would give up his life to prove. So I wanted to turn him into a man that could accomplish it...That is all..."

Might Guy

A few days later

Syrus was ready to go out to battle. He was angry, beyond angry. He couldn't see straight. His hands wouldn't stop shaking. His heart wouldn't stop its furious beating. His blood wouldn't stop boiling. However, rushing out now would do nothing. Haji and whoever he took with him were well on their way back. If he left now, chances were he'd crisscross and miss them. There was a chance he'd meet them in the middle, but that wasn't likely. Not with the way things were going. He had things to take care of, anyways.

He'd just speak with Haji later when he returned from handling his business.

He wanted to punch Haji in the face so bad. What was the fool thinking just going out on his own? Doing what he was doing, more importantly. Syrus was certain he made it clear where he stood-and nobody else was going to deviate from that. Haji never had the same thought process when it came to this, he knew that, but he expected Haji to follow his lead.

He couldn't expect Haji to share his views or thoughts on it. They were different people in that respect. Haji had mourned, and did all he could to move on. The pain would never go away, but it didn't consume him. It didn't swallow him whole. It didn't burn him with grief and hang him with rage. Syrus could never move on, he'd never be able to. The pain was too great. There had been a time he blamed himself for it, but he had been younger. Stupid. Having thoughts like 'if I did this or that, it would have changed the outcome' was foolish and nonsensical.

The situation would have ended the same. It could have ended worse, however. But, nothing would have changed the outcome so it was "better" than how things turned out. The only thing this could really be applied to is perhaps a marriage. If I married younger I could have had more kids, or something along those lines. But, he seen marriages fall apart. He seen them made just for the sake of an invasion.

Shuji being so calm and cool about it made sense. It made a lot of sense. The man was accustomed to war. He lived and breathed it. The only time he ever lost his temper was in the heat of battle-that's when the cool and calm faded to a ruthless tenacity. Shuji understood the tides of war-the tides of changes that continued to roll. He understood why this was happening, and why it had to happen in the first place. In short, it had to happen.

Arata tried making waves. Enishi and others were going to go against what Shuji had in place. There had been information regarding Arata and Kumogakure, Shuji's eldest daughter did well in obtaining that, but it still hadn't been enough. Enishi and others were bullheaded. Takeshi had also been vocal in his opposition-the way Haji told it-Shuji and Takeshi had almost come to blows.

What would have been the biggest problem with that is Shuji wouldn't have kept it contained within his own territory. The battle would spread out, it'd be Hagoromo vs Hagoromom and consequently, everyone else would have been dragged into it. Thankfully, that disaster was narrowly averted thanks to Haji. Whatever agreement they had come to, was sold.

Even worse-those damn toads got in the way. They interfered, and he'd be damned if he didn't go there and raise hell. Perhaps they needed to remember where they resided, and who made it possible for them to enjoy their peace. It sure as hell wasn't the Senju, and it sure as hell wasn't the fucking Hyuga. The Domou and Subatsu kept a lock on their land-not only because it was theirs, but Summons shared the same land as them. Summoning creatures got to flourish and live in peace-no shinobi trying to make contracts with them, or trying to coerce them.

The toads weren't any different. Mount Myouboku wasn't any different. It had been centuries that the toads, like all the summons, enjoyed peace in their habitats. They didn't stay that way just because. Shinobi could and would seek out such places. Average humans would. Greed. Resources. Power. Control. All of these things pushed them to take that step.

It was a slap to the face the toads would interefere.

How dare they.

Just as he was about to look up, Itsume entered the room. Syrus noted there was worry and concern in her eyes. The type of concern that could only come from a woman worrying about a man. He sighed to himself, raking a hand through his hair, and paused when he got to the middle of his skull. This was something he wasn't very good with-he was the last person anyone should come to about this.

"Itsume? What brings you here?" Sadao asked, a little surprised.

"It's Rukuro."

Syrus arched a brow. "What about him?"

It was odd Itsume wasn't performing her duties or helping the young ones train. It was odd she wasn't helping arriving civilians adjust to the new life they'd be living. The woman was dedicated to her duties, more than anything. While there wasn't a battle to go out to, there was a lot of things that were being taken care of in the compound at this moment.

So, of course...This had to be about a man.

Rukuro.

"I'm worried about him."

Syrus took out his pipe, and began to pack it up. He executed a small scale fire jutsu, and let the cherry burn for a few seconds while inhaling.

Shuji suppressed a chuckle, watching the younger man nearly cough. Yes, clearly Syrus wasn't fit for a talk like this-hell, he knew he wasn't fit for a talk like this. Daiyu had been an arranged marriage. If his father, and the elders at the point in time hadn't taken that step-Shuji had no doubt he'd be single at this point in time, and he'd be dead on one of the many war zones.

He vaguely wondered why Itsume was coming here, of all places to go to for this sort of talk. Certainly Osen was better equipped for this. Kata was better equipped for this. Certainly Daiyu was much better equipped for this kind of talk. It wasn't a secret Syrus was a womanizer, and he spent a lot of time in brothels and pleasure houses whenever he was out and about. Many shinobi did, and had to, otherwise they'd go mad with just not blood thirst, but lust.

Still, Shuji tried to look as composed as possible, even if he was amused. "Why?"

Itsume took a seat in front of the three men, setting her hands in her lap. She looked a little awkward and uncomfortable. No doubt it was because she was about to speak of personal feelings with her leaders-who were men. It'd be different if women were present-women liked to talk about this sort of thing all of the time.

"He's gotten...Distant."

"Distant?" Shuji echoed.

Sadao cleared his throat. "He's lashing out."

Itsume hesitated for a second, then nodded. "Anyone that tries to talk to him or see him, he lashes out...He even does it with me. He spends most of his time in his house, or in the jungle."

"Strange..." Syrus mused, looking at his hands. "It's odd for him to be that way, but maybe he's being bothered too much."

Itsume clenched her hands in her lap, taking a small breath. Rukuro was quiet and cool most of the time. He did smile, he laughed, and he did speak to people when they spoke to him. But, he wasn't smiling, laughing, or talking to anyone. He was screaming at the top of his lungs, madder than she ever seen him, and he slammed his door right in her face on one occasion.

She felt she was annoying him, and she could be the cause of it. But, there were other people-like Tsugi who were being snapped at by Rukuro. If Rukuro was snapping at Tsugi like that, maybe it wasn't just her. But, she was still a woman. Even if she did cut the heads off of men in battle, deep down inside, she was still a woman, and she had a bond with Rukuro.

Being a woman...How could she not blame herself for his actions?

"Itsume isn't like that. Rukuro saved her in battle, they have a bond." Sadao said, tone strong.

Syrus threw his hands up in exasperation. "I'm throwing something out there."

"With all due respect, not every man is as free as you are."Sadao remarked.

"I could be smothering him..." Itsume ventured. "He hasn't been the same since the battle with the Sarutobi..."

Sadao wouldn't hear any of it. Itsume and Rukuro spent a lot of time together, and now, the man wanted to act so strange...It threw off Itsume. She was starting to question things she said and did. Before, she would never even consider doing such a thing. Itsume wasn't at fault here. It was Rukuro. That battle with the Sarutobi had been vicious, and right down to the bone-they lost some in the battle, however...

"Itsume, do you really believe that?"

The woman didn't make a visible reaction, nor did she answer.

Is he going to do that? Syrus exhaled a stream of smoke, looking out the window. It wouldn't be the first time or the last time one of his kin took that drastic step and did themselves in. A battle just wasn't a battle for them. When they clashed with their foes-when they stepped foot on those war zones...They felt and seen the hopes, dreams, fears, hates, and everything else from their foes.

It drove some over the edge. After battle they'd have nightmares. They'd believe they were seeing ghosts out the corner of their eyes. They could feel a presence or pressure bearing down on them. It wasn't fear. It wasn't paranoia. They just knew something was happening-and it had to do with the battle, the foes they killed-those of strong will.

The Sarutobi had a strong will, extremely powerful...

If...

Syrus formed a seal, producing two clones.

"Bring Rukuro in here."

Sadao was almost as surprised as Itsume when Syrus's two clones vanished to bring Rukuro to the room. He was under the assumption Syrus viewed Itsume's concern as nothing more than a lover worrying about another lover. But, now Syrus seemed worried. His eyes were narrowed. He was inhaling more and more from his pipe.

"That's a quick change of heart." The older man had to make the comment.

Syrus didn't respond. He sunk deeper into his chair. A change of heart wasn't the right term. He remembered his dead brother and sister. The way his dead brother agonized over everything. He had come to cross the bridge Rukuro was about to tread on-was already treading on, and he found his way to the other side. It pained him, even to this day, but it was the decision his brother made.

Even if he didn't accept it.

"I wouldn't call it a change of heart, Sadao." Shuji said, short.

Before either man, or Itsume could retort, the door was opened and Rukuro took two steps to get in before he shut it. Just behind him was Usagi, who opened the door and shut it. His gaze fixed around the room, and he focused on Itsume. His brows drew together, and he looked at Syrus-eye to eye, not wavering for even the briefest of seconds.

"You wanted me?"

"Rukuro-" Usagi started.

"Sit down, Rukuro." Syrus said, tone breaking no argument.

Rukuro didn't budge. He grabbed one of the chairs in the room, and put it by his side. He didn't make a move to sit down. "What do you want, Syrus?"

Itsume shifted, wary, along with Usagi.

"I want you to sit your ass down." Syrus grated out, losing patience. "Now, so we can get to this."

Rukuro didn't move a centimeter. "Get to what?"

Itsume could feel the gravity in Rukuro's tone. He was getting angry. Maybe it was a mistake to bring his behavior to Syrus's, Sadao's, and Shuji's attention. She may have pushed him too far now. He'd know she brought this to Syrus-that's the only way Syrus would ever take action to see what the problem was, and fix it. She dared to look at him, but something made her keep her gaze away.

Usagi cleared her throat, looking at Rukuro. "We're worried..."

The words struck something inside of Rukuro. He felt nothing but rage and fury. His hands clenched into fists, and he almost crushed the chair with his grip He was tempted to send it a million yards away, but that'd be a waste of energy. He turned his eyes onto Itsume, and for the first time since he stepped into the room, she met his eyes.

"Did Tsugi come here, or was it you?"

Shuji shifted. "I'd control my temper if I were you, Rukuro."

Rukuro looked at Shuji for a second, then looked back at Itsume. He stared at Usagi, clenching his teeth "You...You both..."

"Rukuro, sit your ass down." Syrus was almost out of his seat, staring down the man before him. His body language was starting to get aggressive, and he didn't like the tone he was taking with Usagi or Itsume.

"Pick a hand."

Sadao and Shuji blinked, confused.

Syrus got what Rukuro was saying, and he was standing up at this point. His body was relaxed, but alert, ready to spring it attack or defense. "We can throw down right here."

Sadao was exasperated. Between Rukuro's bad attitude and Syrus's bad temper, a brawl was going to be taking place. These two were going to start swinging, and he seen and was a part of the training in the compound. If these two went at it-for real, which they would, both were going to kill each other or break several bones.

"I'm going to get right to the point." Sadao said. "Don't even think of killing yourself."

"That's my choice to make." Rukuro snarled.

Sadao cut his hand through the air. "Itsume loves you too much."

Rukuro looked at the woman he saved in battle. The woman he shared tea and food with. The woman he'd spend hours talking to and training with. He seen a woman. A beautiful woman, Hair as white as snow, and eyes brighter than gems. She was gorgeous. However-it wasn't enough to make him cling to this atrocity known as reality. It wasn't enough to make those screams go away, to take away the hands that grabbed him and shook him.

It was his life. He could take it, if he so desired. Many Subatsu took their own lives. They rushed to death in battle-killing everyone in their path before they finally fell to the ground. Other Subatsu would jump off the mountains and cliffs in their land into darkness-eventually, they'd hit the bottom of the ravines. Some would dive into water and never come back up. Others would fall on their swords and plunge them through their necks until it came out the other side. It was the same thing with the Domou.

It always left everyone in shambles. There was no mourning. They couldn't afford that luxury. But, it left the children without a valuable mentor. It left the women short one strong man. There was a dent in the ranks. Everyone could be replaced-they always needed to plan and think ahead...But, there was no way to replace someone, when it came down to it. There was a space, that couldn't be filled-a space as wide as space itself.

Rukuro understood this well. He got it. However, he was tired. He was done.

"Rukuro..." Itsume murmured.

"I'm leaving." Rukuro said-when he opened the door, Tsugi and Ryoku were there blocking the way. Takeshi and a few Hagoromo were with them, standing right behind them.

Rukuro turned around, hand going for the hilt of his sword.

He drew it swiftly.

Tsugi and Ryoku immediately drew their swords.

"I won't hold back if you attack me..." Shuji said, tone low as he stood up.

Rukuro shifted forward half a step, bringing himself into a crouch. He sheathed his sword and set it down.

"I told you to sit your ass down." Syrus looked at everyone in the room. "Don't interfere."

Rukuro sheathed his sword, and threw it to the side.

Rukuro returned Syrus's punch with one of his own. They grappled and sprawled across the floor. Rukuro tried to flip him, but Syrus landed on his feet and drove him into the wall. He jabbed his shoulder forward, and Rukuro clenched his fist, and swung it up. It met Syrus's chin, but at that point, Syrus was transitioning into another slam.

Rukuro strained against him, grabbed him by the head, and swung down with all of his might.

They hit the table, going through it.

"Rukuro! Stop!" Usagi cried.

Syrus heaved, slamming his feet into Rukuro's chest. He didn't want to seriously hurt him, but Rukuro wasn't holding back. He wasn't going to hold back either, and hadn't from the outset. Rukuro's uppercut sent him over the edge. Now he was only focused on bringing this fight to an end.

Rukuro seemed to notice this, and in the moment Syrus's emotions flared-Rukuro had him up in the air. Syrus did what the man did to him just a few seconds ago. He swung himself down with all of his might, snatching Rukuro's side in the process. This time they hit the floor, hard. Both men felt their ribs jar from the impact, and they were left momentarily paralyzed.

"I want to be left alone." Rukuro bit out, teeth clenched.

Syrus rose to his feet, wiping some blood from his chin. He didn't bother to massage his ribs. Rukuro was up just a second after him, hand on his ribs. Where he had struck the floor during their grappling contest.

They charged each other, and this time, they both fell to the floor. Rukuro's head bounced off twice, Syrus's head bounced off the floor once, before he slid into the corner. Neither impacts kept the men down for long, and they were up and swinging not even a second later. The sickening thuds of fists hitting flesh and bone began to sound off.

Rukuro went after Syrus's neck, and Syrus did the same. Teeth gritting and snarling, they began to push against each other, vying for a position where they'd be able to crush the other. They both took a step too quick, and were sent across the room-moving in opposite directions. They hit the wall, spines barely absorbing the impact, but they were beyond the pain at this point. They were up, coughing up blood, but still ready to fight.

"Rukuro, please stop!" Itsume exclaimed, feeling her eyes start to water. She stood in front of him, arms out to her sides. "Please!"

"You, too brother!" Usagi shouted, copying Itsume. "Stop fighting now!"

"Stay back!" Sadao shouted, pulling the women behind him. "Don't move, Itsume. You either, Usagi."

Itsume could barely hear them.

Rukuro couldn't hear them, however. He could only hear Itsume's panicked breaths. He could only see her misty eyes.

Something in Rukuro caved when he seen Itsume's eyes gleam with tears. He seen a little girl in Itsume's place, for a brief second, crying desperately. She didn't grasp at him or throw her arms out to her sides, she only cried. Cried bitterly. All the anger he felt slinked off into the deepest parts of his mind. He was left feeling nothing but shame. He looked at everyone gathered, breathing heavy, sweat was pooling down his forehead, and his shoulders were hunched.

He had been primed for an attack. He hadn't even put any thought into it, his body had been moving all on its own. He took a deep breath, and stood upright. He relaxed his hands, taking another deep breath. He exhaled.

Itsume eased back a step, body relaxing.

Rukuro's eyes were back to normal.

His chakra was calm, as was Syrus's.

"Confine me..." Rukuro said, he turned his hands up in front of him-palms facing the sky. "Now."

Ryoku sheathed his sword-gesturing for Takeshi and the other Hagoromo to part a path. They did, wary, and ready to attack. Once Rukuro was in front of them, Takeshi gripped him by the shoulder, giving him a push to move forward.

Rukuro moved without any issue.

Tsugi looked at Itsume, feeling a sliver of pity. She put herself between all of them-she could have been killed. Trained woman or not, being between men like them with swords drawn wasn't right.

"You all right, Itsume?"

Itsume looked at Tsugi, then looked at Usagi.

"Come on, Itsume...I..I'll make us some tea." Usagi said.

Both girls bowed out of the room.

Tsugi left right after them.

Shuji and Syrus sat down, both exhaling briskly.

Sadao sighed heavily. Though he never stood up like Syrus and Shuji during the confrontation, he felt the same pressure and strain that they did. Perhaps even worse than they did. Rukuro hadn't been playing around when he drew his sword-the man had been ready to kill.

"Has Rukuro gone mad?" Sadao asked, looking at Syrus. "For that matter, have you?"

"You've never had a fight with your own kin?" Syrus asked, not looking amused.

"Not like that, no."

"Rukuro does not have the eyes a madman..." Shuji replied, tone low. "Those are the eyes of a man who is waiting for death."

He at one point, had those same eyes. He was right around Rukuro's age, too. It wouldn't be another six years before he married, and during that time he invited death and laughed in its face. However, after he was arranged to marry Daiyu, and spent time with her beforehand...That part of him that chased after death, quelled down-oddly enough he found peace. During those late nights, and early mornings, and times where he'd brood-Daiyu had always been there, offering a silent presence.

In any case, hopefully now that Rukuro has Itsume-for as long as they alive, that part of him should be quelled, too. It shouldn't be at the point where it's too late-it wasn't too late for him when he married Daiyu. But, if he had waited just a few years more-it would have been too late. Even if he married Daiyu, or a different woman, he wouldn't have changed at all.

Living on war zones.

Now, Syrus on the other hand-Shuji got the feeling that part of him would never be quelled.

"I won't ask how you know that." Sadao shook his head, looking at Syrus. "About the toads."

"I'm going to crush them if they make me angry."

Sadao nodded, already knowing Syrus would do just that. "That's why I'll be coming with you, not Shuji."

"What?" Syrus asked, at a loss.

"Need to be a little diplomatic." Sadao replied, smirking when he heard the younger man sigh.

"You are too quick to fly off the handle." Shuji agreed.

Syrus would have retorted, but he only took the comment-amused by it. "Fair enough."

"I'll have Haji debrief when he returns." Shuji added.

Syrus nodded, clenching his hands. "Let him know I want to speak with him, first thing when I return."

Shisuke was having second thoughts. The long tables that would have normally been filled with food for a special occasion were barren. The white cloth which adorned the tables during these prior occassions was gone, replaced with a burnt red-like color with the kanji for fire stitched proudly on it, dead in the center. One seat away from him on both sides sat Hashirama and Tobirama both of them donning their casual attire. Mito was right next to them.

Danzo sat next to Shisuke-a sign of how much the older man trusted him. It was clear that Danzo held a lot of power. Held a lot of trust. He wouldn't abuse any of it, or try to take reins. That'd only set him behind and lose the noble's trust. Nobles were fickle enough as it was. If he made a power move, Shisuke would ban him from meetings, and possibly the capital altogether.

"How is the recovery of that battle?" Hashirama broke the tense silence, smiling a little awkwardly. "I can assist, if you wish for me to."

"Thank you for the offer, but it is being handled. We will be fine." Shisuke set his hands on the table, cupping them.

"Are you sure, Shisuke-dono?" Mito queried. "Hashirama's Mokuton can easily rebuild buildings and infrastructure."

Danzo leveled a glare with Mito.

He couldn't stand this woman.

"His help isn't needed or wanted. This is a problem of the capital, and it is being handled accordingly." Shisuke said, tone strong.

Shisuke looked at Tobirama critically, arching an eyebrow. "Surely you understand this, Tobirama. If you and your brother were to help us rebuild, it'd be nothing but a show of weakness to those outside of us."

"I can agree with that, but, at the same time...If we were to help you, that'd show to everyone else that we are united."

Hashirama watched with slight relief as Shisuke relaxed upon hearing those words.

Tobirama was very skilled in diplomacy, and knew what to say and when, he realized. It wouldn't be much of a stretch to say that he could pace and dictate an entire conversation or meeting. He knew what to say and when to say it. He also knew when to do certain things. Still, Tobirama had the nasty habit of stepping over certain lines and boundaries.

"They've arrived." Tobirama said. "The Hatake, Utatane, Mitokado, and Kohaku... They're being escorted by the soldiers as we are speaking...Strange..."

Danzo looked thoughtful. "I'm surprised I thought the Nara and Yamanaka would have come with them."

"The Nara and Yamanaka are reclusive by nature. They will probably wait to see how everything turns out, and then join us. There's also the clans that showed up now-all except for the Hatake will be throwing accusations at them, and each other. Kiyoshi is too reserved to play that game, and Riichi doesn't have the patience to start with."

"I agree with that sentiment." Mito said softly, looking at Hashirama.

Tobirama could agree with that. Kiyoshi was a silent man and Riichi was reticent. Both would observe a situation before jumping right into it. They'd spend weeks and months observing a battle before getting involved. It's why both clans always defeated the Senju in combat. Short term or long term. They didn't have the chakra or life force levels that the Senju did, but they had superior intellect and hiden jutsu.

Both clans would be more than beneficial to Konoha. The Nara's everlasting patience and unending wit. The Yamanaka's thoughtfulness and tact. Kiyoshi could lead troops into battle without ever wavering under pressure. Riichi would be able to decipher truth from lie-going deep into a person's psyche with his clan's hiden jutsu. Still, he knew that Kiyoshi and Riichi would both be wary of Konoha itself-they'd be cautious of the village itself and what it represents. They'd have no problem being allies-they'd have their own territory and space, but joining Konoha was another topic that they wouldn't tread on.

But, if Konoha didn't have these two clans-who were renown through the Elemental Nations and Fire country...Konoha couldn't truly be complete. The village will always stand once it is founded-of that he and Hashirama would ensure, but he couldn't just look over a clan like the Nara. If they were to join Kumogakure, it'd spell trouble. It'd never happen, but he still had to anticipate every possibility.

If Kiyoshi and Riichi joined Kumogakure-their intelligence, combined with Hajime's wily ways, and Arata's, and Katsu's brute strength...Kumogakure would set its sights on conquering the Elemental Nations as a whole. Arata and Katsu would lead the charge, Kiyoshi and Riichi would be in the back, glancing Hajime, coming up with strategies and contingencies for any problem they'd encounter, and Tunoichi would work behind the scenes with them to ensure nothing was out of place, and if anything was...

That mole would be flushed out in less than a minute.

He didn't want to include the Sarutobi and Akimichi into that equation-he was pragmatic, not cynical.

Having both clans as allies was far more beneficial than having them as enemies-fierce enemies at that. However, could they be more important than Konoha? Would Hashirama or himself bend for these clans to join Konoha? He had his pride, and he wouldn't yield. That didn't mean he wouldn't be reasonable, but he wasn't going to allow these clans to come in with demands and things of that like.

Hashirama was the exact opposite. He would bend his back a thousand times over, even after it snaps, and still bend it a thousand times over. Hashirama would want them to join the village-definitely. It wasn't for military power or prowess. It'd be so they all have a safe place to reside, a safe place where their children could play and be children, and not worry about war. It is for these reasons that Hashirama would bend over backwards for everyone. A place where clan boundaries and hostility can be forgotten-broken down over time.

Tobirama knew things like that were never so simple. Everyone-the Senju included, have been killing each other for centuries. In the name of honor. In the name of peace. In the name of duty. Still it was all blood letting-and nobody would just let bygones by bygones when children were killed. Many Senju children were killed, many Nara children were killed, civilian children were killed in the crossfire of shinobi battles...It'd be no easy feat to get the boundaries to drop, and perhaps, such things, would never be dropped.

It didn't stop his brother from being a dreamer and trying to make that reality.

Shisuke kept himself leveled as he spoke. "I think all of the clans in the Fire country will be joining Konoha. Except for the Hyuga, and a few more."

"That is great news!" Hashirama couldn't hide his excitement.

"The Aburame sent word back that they are 'considering it'. They are still discussing it among themselves. Considering they are a reclusive and extremely wary clan, their response is somewhat a given. They won't overstep their boundaries like the Sarutobi did not too long ago. I'm not exactly surprised by their response, so moving forward from that." Shisuke continued.

"What about the Sarutobi?" Mito ventured.

"I don't care about them. They're lucky that I haven't branded them as traitors to this country and have them all killed!"

Danzo almost laughed humorlessly.

Of course Mito couldn't just keep her mouth shut.

The Sarutobi signing the ceasefire would be a great thing to happen. They were a strong willed, powerful, and hot blooded clan-if they could be reined in, they'd be a supporting pillar of Konoha. If they were able to get them on the same page as everyone else, they'd advance Konoha's progression by leaps and bounds. But, the Sarutobi weren't so intelligent or had enough wit to understand that.

So, it was a moot point.

The Hyuga were a crux. He wasn't sure if they'd join, or ever be able to get on the same page. They were a hubris and rigid clan, it wasn't a stretch to say that they'd want village leadership and powerful political reins within the village. They weren't going to be satisfied with just being founding members, if it happened, nor would they be happy just being able to help and live in Konoha. They'd want something in return.

Entitled pricks.

Danzo suppressed his scoff-that clan was better off being wiped out.

Before another retort could be made-the door was opened, and the clan leaders that had been present before, except for two, entered by single file.

"Tadaaki Utatane. Leader of the Utatane clan."

"Tadashi Mitokado, leader of the Mitokado clan."

"Momomi Kohaku, leader of the Kohaku clan."

"My name is Koichi Hatake, but you all know me well enough."

They took their respective seats.

"Kiyoshi and Riichi aren't present." Tadashi said. "Where are they?"

"It doesn't matter. They will merely be a distraction if we allow them to be. We need to get right down to business, and take care of this. The days grow shorter, and the Water damiyo will attack any anytime." Shisuke spoke calm and collected.

His eyes scanned everyone in the room watching for the slightest bit of discontent or emotion.

He continued on. setting the piece of paper onto the table-the layout of the infrastructure that Konoha would have. The ceasefire agreement. And more technical things. "It is to my understanding everyone gathered here are more than willing to accept this ceasefire agreement, thus you would all stop fighting-from this point on, no questions asked. If any clan goes against this, they will face my wrath. Pass this along and read it."

Several silent and tense minutes passed.

The only sound that could be heard vaguely was breathing and the shuffling of the paper as it went from one person to another. Expressions varied from anger, outrage, understanding, content, disgruntled, and acceptance. It was hard to say who had which expression since it changed every few seconds as the thought and prospect of this occurring sunk in fully, however nobody spoke out and silently read with intent.

"Well... I have one concern." Tadaaki started.

"What is the problem with it?"

"We don't wish to be cornered into this, as I said before." Tadaaki said firmly. "We find nothing wrong with what is in this in of itself."

"Then what is the problem?" Danzo repeated.

"I've come to see if it is agreeable. I don't want to face any backlash should I disagree. My concerns are the same as the first time I came here." Tadaaki said, taking a long look at Shisuke.

"You think you can control everything? You may control things in the land of your clan, but make no mistake that your entire clan will be annihilated if you take aggressive action. Mine will suffer the same fate." Koichi said, calmly.

"How dare you!" Tadaaki replied.

"I am only speaking the truth. I didn't signal out your clan, or anyone else's-I mentioned my own-the Hatake." Koichi retorted.

"You need to watch yourself, Tadaaki. You're actions are becoming irrational." Momomi said with a light glare.

"You've got something to say, Momomi?"

"You're inclining to take aggressive action against the damiyo, and the capital if things don't go your way." Tadashi said, remaining calm.

"After what happened with the Sarutobi, Shisuke will be wary of any such things. This whole meeting could be for naught, if you don't get control of your emotions."

"I agree with that." Tobirama said, folding his arms across his chest.

"I'm glad there is a mutual agreement to not bring conflict into my Capital between most of you that are present. There might be a couple of dissenters, but I'm certain they will turn their views around, quickly. This is a ceasefire, after all-no need to brew conflict anymore. You will all here by cease any and all conflicts with each other. You will not provoke one another and you won't use the fine print to start another war because you aren't satisfied with how things turn out when it is all said and done, this is concrete, and will be for decades after this." Shisuke honestly didn't care if he was stepping on toes.

They've all been so stupid and foolish blinded by their pride and anger, they lusted for blood and war just because.

For the clan. For honor. For revenge.

All foolish.

Now it will end.

"What is this?" Momomi asked.

"This is the beginning of the end of you shinobi and your incessant wars." Shisuke replied. "This option is better than obliterating the whole lot of you, or allowing all of you to obliterate each other over stupid and foolish reasons. So keep in mind that I am being merciful and more than corrigible with this. None of you are in a position to start being pugnacious, you should keep that in mind, all of you.

"I don't believe I've done anything wrong." Momomi said with an incline of his chin.

"You should remember where you are and your place..." Shisuke warned grimly.

"There's no need to escalate things to the point that there's a battle taking place. That defeats the purpose of this meeting, and as it was mentioned before. Any actions that are even an inkling close to that, will be seen as treason. Let's learn from the Sarutobi and their mistakes." Tobirama added with a stern glare.

"I will not sit here and-"

"We are not here to stroke your egos. Get over it." Danzo said, voice low with impatience. "We are here to discuss a ceasefire and this shinobi village."

"I am in agreement, your egos are ridiculous, It will get us nowhere. We need to focus on the mutual goal and objective here." Tadashi stated.

"That is for the better-we all need to be on the same page." Mito said.

"I agree as well. Nobody here is going to stroke your egos. There is a real threat to all of our clans, and I think it'd be for the better if we can come together, as opposed to battling each other and throwing out accusations." Koichi said calmly, keeping his anger and agitation in check.

Shisuke waved his hand briefly and before anyone could make a move thousands of Imperial soldiers filed into the room all standing with their imposing armor and halberds. A few had massive swords and others had frightening spears. Unlike the first time around, they got extremely close, and point their weapons at every shinobi's face present.

"If that is the case I will take the necessary measures so that you don't cause such a spark. Don't forget where you are...And don't forget why you are here in the first place...The Sarutobi committed treason, and I will not overlook that. I will not overlook anything that remotely alludes to that, understand this. I will not have any more battles come to this village or the capital, do you understand?""

Momomi nodded. "I understand. I am only wary and cautious of this whole thing."

"You are the only one complaining..." Tobirama said biting back a sigh.

"The only one willing to complain out loud about it, at this moment."

"Please understand this is all for the benefit of everyone involved, and those who will be involved in the future. This village is a good thing, even if we'll all have to adjust to it." Hashirama said.

"That brings me to my next point." Tadaaki turned his gaze on Hashirama.

"It is well known that for the last few months and before these months, you were allies with the Subatsu, correct?"

Tobirama narrowed his yes. "What is your point?"

"How do we know you won't ally with them, again?"

Hashirama locked eyes with Tadaaki, ever calm, his dark eyes didn't flash with the faintest flicker of emotion. "The purpose of this village is for all clans to come together. That doesn't just mean those in the Fire country."

"I don't trust you, in that case." Tadashi said bluntly.

Tobirama shrugged. "That is irrelevant. None of us trust each other. Our clans have been at war for thousands of centuries. This is the only time we've all tried to reach a consensus and mutual truce-that will last for longer than a few hours. It's a waste of time to postulate about the Subatsu being our allies once again."

"Wasting time?" Tadashi accused.

"This was supposed to be a meeting discussing this shinobi village. It isn't about speaking of the Subatsu and them being our former allies, or allies in the future. That is all a moot point, and has no meaning." Tobirama explained.

"Is this shinobi village just something to put us into a paddock? The Nara and Yamanaka are reclusive and don't like people, so you just round them up and put them into a village so you can keep tabs on us? Is that your goal, Hashirama? From what I've seen and heard so far-that is your goal. My clan can kill Senju, and everyone else here has killed thousands of Senju-do you just hate losing that much?" Koichii was quick to add.

Hashirama was at a loss for just a second before he responded. Entrapping clans and putting them under his thumb was never part of his dream-he wanted them all to live in peace, together. "I can promise you that is not my goal."

"Let me make this clear. My clan will not be bullied." Koichi said, eyes hard as stone. "We don't fear the Senju, never have."

"The same goes for me as well. I am not foolish enough to think that this is all out of the goodness of your heart, Hashirama. There is something more to this, and you're not telling us for your own reasons. I can understand that, but don't put on different faces in front of us. That won't be working." Momonii finished.

"If we squabble among ourselves, someone will be disgruntled and wish to fight, this will in turn drag more clans into it...We wouldn't make any progress with the village and would be going all the way back to square one. For this reason we have to add this ceasefire, it is only reasonable and realistic. Also, the reason there can only be one leader-"

"I am not concerned about who becomes leader or the fact that there's only one." Tadashi cut the younger man off. "The fact there is only one leader levels the playing field to just a few candidates. At first I thought it'd be down to some sort of democratic vote, but considering we are in a time of constant war, that will not e the case.."

Hashirama pursed his lips, brows furrowing.

He could hear their wariness.

He could feel their caution and animosity.

"In order to avoid anymore conflict certain measures need to be taken and put into place. We won't like it. There are Senju that won't like it. But, this has to be done. Whether everyone understands or agrees with it means little-it is necessary." Tobirama said bluntly, gaze impassive.

"We are by no means ostracizing anyone or clan in particular, but in order to stop this endless conflict between us shinobi...This must happen. There won't be battles between us or over leadership of this village, that is why a vote from the population of the village-shinobi and non shinobi alike. It makes everything fair and eliminates unilateral decisions, which are the norm at this moment...But if things continue as they have...There won't be a Senju, Hatake, Mitokado, Nara, Yamanaka, or any other clan in the world. There won't be any shinobi left."

Tadashi didn't look amused. "Nice way of talking around the subject."

Hashirama opened his mouth, but Tadaaki raised his hand.

"I see, you've made your point. No need to get long winded. I think we all understand what we're getting ourselves into and who will become the leader of this village, and who will be the next." Tadaaki grunted.

"Well let's proceed on with this, shall we?" Shisuke ventured, looking at everyone present. "The days grows short until the Water damiyo and those clans launch an attack."

The other leaders settled on nodding.

Hashirama kept himself calm, his heart thundered, and his breathing quickened...

This was it...

Shisuke took a deep breath, eyeing everyone gathered. "I will ratify and approve this village. Any clans that wish to join after it is formed are welcomed to do so, but we will hold a meeting like this to see where the clan leaders' heads are at. I will not allow someone thirsty for power or blood to be a part of this village, or allowed to be in this country. I hope you understand, Hashirama. All of you."

"I do, sir." Hashirama bowed slightly.

Everyone else copied his action, having no more arguments.

"Did you have a particular location where you wanted to build this village? This country is dominated with trees, rivers, and mountains. Finding a suitable location where you're closed off could be a little problematic."

Hashirama knew the place. He had known it was the exact location he wanted his village. Where he and Madara would meet as children, where they'd spar, where they'd race, and where they'd have their competitions of skipping stones.

It was a spot that brought him calm-it was a spot he had been so eager to travel to, to meet with his friend-an Uchiha. Things had changed. In the world. Between himself and Madara. They have both been through personal changes as well. But, this spot would always mean the same to him.

It would be easily located, of course. But, he was certain between himself, Tobirama, Danzo, Shisuke, and everyone else that was gathered here-they'd put a security system in place that'd be near impenetrable. Of course the mountains, surrounding cliffs, and thick forests would act as a deterrent to most threats, there'd always be those few that could get through.

That's where he came in. Tobirama, and everyone else.

"There's a cliff overlooking the forest about one hundred miles away from here. I'd like to build the village in that patch of forest."

Koichi looked solemn for a moment. "Wouldn't that be counterproductive? We should build it atop the cliff, not below it."

Hashirama smiled. "There's more room below, and we can stand on the cliff and watch over the village ourselves."

Momomi shrugged, cupping his hands. "I have no reason to object. Tadashi?"

"I have none." Tadashi affirmed.

"I still agree with Koichi. I don't feel safe being in a village that can be so easily infiltrated. What about my clan?" Tadaaki went on.

Shisuke looked at Hashirama. He wasn't at the age where his eyes were shining with wisdom. He doubted he'd live to be that ripe age of eighty or above. Maybe in the distant future, people will be able to live such long lives, and enjoy that luxury. "Please explain further."

Hashirama was about to open his mouth, but kept it shut. He hadn't exactly thought that far ahead, and judging by Tobirama's stoic, but rigid appearance, he hadn't planned that far ahead either. He focused primarily on a chain of command, which was needed. But, there were finer details that Shisuke and everyone else would want to see and hear-wanted to see complete.

Unfortunately he didn't have that finer detail. It would take more than just some powerful men standing on top of a cliff, overlooking the village, to convince Shisuke it was a good location. What were they to do when times were tough? Like the approaching storm? Would he and the others stand up on the cliff all day and night-not directing the construction of the villages, and other important things?

"May I have permission to speak, Shisuke-dono?" Mito asked.

Shisuke looked at Danzo.

"The Uzumaki are Fuinjutsu masters, and that'd translate into barriers as well. I think Mito is going to speak on that."

Shisuke turned to Mito.

"Danzo is correct, partly." Mito eyed the young boy, brows drawing together. "While Fuinjutsu itself won't be so important, our barriers will be important."

"What does the barrier protect?" Koichi asked.

"What is its range?" Momomi asked.

"Does it just protect the ground or does it cover the air, and the ground below?" Tadashi asked.

"Go on." Shisuke said with some finality.

Mito nodded, pursing her lips. It wasn't often she was in such a position. More often than not, women would just stay quiet, but since she had skill and prowess, and knowledge-she was inclined to speak. By others. And through her own volition. Still, she never spoke to a damiyo-that was something Ashina or Hisao always did. For a moment, she wondered how Mikito handled these situations.

That woman would always speak her mind and do what she did-not caring about what anyone thought.

"The barrier will protect the entire village-the outside walls. It will patrol underneath the village, and above it. It'll have a radius of twenty meters across, and fifty meters high. Normally, at least with us Uzumaki-there's a single group that maintains the barriers and keeps a constant watch on them. But, since no one here is that versed in the skill except for maybe...Tobirama...I can make some seals that'll do that for us. We'll still need a unit of people to report to us of any discrepancies."

"Why is the barrier so small?" Shisuke asked.

Mito took the question in stride, not faltering the slightest. "Think of it more compact."

"If there are intruders, they could get closer to the village without any of you knowing."

"If the barrier reaches too far-bugs and things of that nature will step into it. There's going to be constant flickers. Besides, we won't just sit idly. There will be units that patrol and sweep the area-far and close to the village. By keeping our barrier more compact we single out the real threats to the village-everything else is just a distraction."

Koichi closed his eyes. "That's a fairly well presented argument. I am no expert in seals or barriers, so I have nothing more to add."

Everyone settled on nodding.

Mito hummed softly, knowing it wouldn't be that easy. "The barrier can be expanded, and contracted, of course. I can add those things into the seal, but the norm will be twenty meters across and fifty meters high. Take into account, fifty meters entails above and in the underground. I think that gives us a pretty good covering of the village and its surroundings."

Tadaaki grunted. "No need to get long winded, Uzumaki."

Mito smiled. "I want to articulate and present my point clearly."

"Then you accomplished your task." Tadashi said. "I'd like to move onto the name of this village, and who will be the leader."

Danzo smirked for a second.

"I like Hashirama's name for the village-Konohagakure-or Village Hidden In The Leaves. A fitting name considering where it will be located. I also like his name of the leader of this village-Hokage-or Fire Shadow." Shisuke remarked.

A shadow was just what the Hokage would be-a shadow in comparison to himself and the capital.

"And, who will be Hokage?" Tadashi was bold enough to ask.

"I believe Hashirama is the most suitable choice."

"It was inevitable that Hashirama would be the Hokage-he can build most of the infrastructure, after all. None of us wield the Mokuton." Koichi commented.

Hashirama opened his mouth, but Shisuke cut him off.

"Then, shall we make this official?"

Everyone nodded.

Shisuke pulled out a long piece of paper, filled with writing. There was the entire layout of Tobirama's rough design for the chain of command, with a few tweaks. There were more finer details as well. Mission, pay, and things of that nature. "Then all of you will sign here. I will ratify Konohagakure and make it official. Hashirama will be the Hokage. We must hasten our steps before the Water damiyo and those clans attack. We are in a precarious time, and I will not allow this country or Konoha to be vulnerable."

"Hasten?" Tobirama inquired.

"I want this village up and running within a fortnight, or less." Shisuke replied.

Hashirama nodded, taking a deep breath. It was crunch time. "Very well. I-we will see to it that it is done."

Shisuke inclined his chin. "I am glad to hear that."