A new generation of shinobi, heirs to their predecessors’ legacies, must rise to face the challenges ahead. Their paths are intertwined with the villages’ fate and the essence of the shinobi way as they confront powerful enemies and unforeseen challenges unlike any before. Welcome to Ninja-Tales, wanderer— we’re glad you found us, and we can’t wait for you to jump into our world.
CRE DITS
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[attr="class","caesartext"]About two days ago, a scroll was sent to Konohakagure. Inside were details that the Mizukage would be visiting their village. Honestly, the meeting was intended for the previous Nidaime Hokage, and not the current Sandaime Hokage; however, after the late Hokage's passing, Yashiro had no choice but to change his plans.[break][break]
That was until it would dawn on him that any prearrangements he once had with the Leaf's administration needed to be...renegotiated. Not only that, a trip to Konoha would allow him to hopefully discover what led to the untimely death of the previous Hokage. [break][break]
In truth, the Mizukage had quite a bit of curiosity, as anyone would be when a party within big business deals go missing. He could only imagine what the morale was like within the citizens of the village, nonetheless their Shinobi. In fact, he could almost feel the tension in the air as he made his way over to the large green gates at the front of the village. [break][break] The excursion itself took about a day and a half to complete, if you add in all of the stops he and the small trio of Shinobi he had with him had to make while traveling. The majority of the journey was done by yacht, which they left docked at the eastern borders of the Land of Fire upon arriving. Pulling up in a caravan-like wagon, once they stopped and were stationary, he opened the side-doors of the fancy caravan, and stepped out with his three pupils in tow. [break][break] [break] "Long time no see, Konohagakure..." The Mizukage's voice trailed off as he spoke, as if greeting the village itself. Truth be told, he hasn't visited Konohagakure since prior to becoming a Kage. By the looks of it, not much has changed. He could feel the low chakra signatures of all the pedestrians moving along the bustling streets of the villlage, just beyond the gates. [break][break] The village gates towered before them, adorned with intricate carvings that depicted the village's history and the unity of its shinobi. The young Kunoichi, a skilled member of Yashiro's entourage, led the way with confidence and grace. Her steps were light, her eyes scanning the surroundings with keen awareness. [break][break] The guards stationed at the gates, clad in Konoha's iconic attire, exchanged glances as the young kunoichi of Yashiro's group approached them. After a brief exchange, she skillfully negotiated their entry, and the gates swung open, revealing the heart of Konoha. [break][break] Surely, the gate officiants would send word to the Hokage of Yashiro's arrival. [break][break] As they stepped through the gates and into the village, Yashiro's senses were enveloped by the vibrant energy that permeated its streets. The buildings, constructed with a harmonious blend of traditional architecture and modern aesthetics, lined the well-maintained roads. Cherry blossom trees, their delicate pink petals gently swaying in the breeze, added a touch of natural beauty to the surroundings. The streets were alive with activity, as villagers and shinobi alike went about their daily routines. Merchants displayed their wares, enticing passersby with colorful stalls filled with fresh fruits, handmade crafts, and vibrant fabrics. Laughter and conversations filled the air, creating a lively atmosphere that mirrored the resilience and spirit of the Hidden Leaf Village that they were known for. [break][break] Yashiro's eyes swept across the faces of the villagers, noting the subtle signs of tension and concern etched upon some. The Mizukage's gaze shifted to the shinobi moving with purpose and determination, their expressions a mixture of dedication and vigilance as he came within sight of the villages most famous attractions. The towering Hokage Monument, visible in the distance. [break][break] As Yashiro and his pupils made their way deeper into the village, they would continue to navigate the bustling streets. The Mizukage's keen eyes absorbed every detail, from the intricate architecture to the subtle nuances of the villagers' emotions, as he prepared himself to embark on his quest for answers within the leafy embrace of Konohagakure. [break][break] Guided by his intuition, Yashiro veered off the bustling main street and followed a winding path that led to the serene and sacred grounds of the memorial. The atmosphere shifted subtly, as if the air carried a weighty reverence. Cherry blossom trees lined the path, their delicate petals dancing in the gentle breeze, creating a poetic backdrop to the solemnity of the place. [break][break] With a solemn expression, Yashiro stepped closer, his eyes tracing the inscriptions carved into the stone. Yashiro's pupils followed suit, their expressions a mix of reverence and curiosity as they absorbed the weight of the memorial's significance. [break][break]As Yashiro stood there, surrounded by the quietude of the memorial, he couldn't help but feel a connection to the past, a recollection from his own past. A fleeting thought really, but something gave him a feeling that made him reminisce momentarily. [break][break] "Mizukage-dono, we mustn't stay much longer if we wish to arrive promptly." Stepping forward, Reika spoke, cautioning Yashiro not to be late. A moment or two later, and they were headed off to the administrative sector to find the Hokage's office, while making their way through the bustling streets of Konoha. [break][break] Upon reaching the majestic building that housed the Hokage's office, Yashiro and his entourage were greeted by the diligent guards in the reception area . They announced their presence and their desire to speak with the Sandaime Hokage, emphasizing the importance of their meeting. At this moment, Yashiro turned towards his pupils and offered them a nod of dismissal as he waited to be seen by the Hokage.
It is only when bound by duty that Kōki ever deigns to stand at his full height, forgoing his perpetual slouch for extreme alertness. He’s not as small a man as he typically appears, and when he pulls his shoulders back the swordsman is entirely broad shoulders and tight musculature: a focused, military figure with dangerous eyes, a tensely clenched jaw, and austerity set in the line of his thin lips. While he would normally illustrate an awkward and retiring nature, Kōki was on a mission today, and the picture he paints is of a man determined to succeed. [break][break] By all accounts the Lord Mizukage requires no escort, nor does he need to rely on bodyguards. The presence of an entourage is, Kōki assumes, a mere formality for appearance’s sake. So when he is asked to accompany Yashiro to the Land of Fire— a land he knew well enough from his many personal excursions— he accepted knowing it would likely be uneventful. The two shinobi accompanying him seemed to believe much the same, but being duty-bound all three met the task with the resolution that was expected of them. [break][break] He draws the hood of his cloak overhead as they reach the shore, casting a dark shadow over his features and obscuring much of his more recognisable traits. To some in Konohagakure he’s a known element, but it was suggested he hide his appearance for this particular mission regardless. He readily agreed, understanding that his status as a jincūriki may well contribute to some conflict down the line, especially if the purpose of their visit to the Hidden Leaf was political. Still, Kōki carries Samehada with him: the one item on his person worthy of note on an otherwise forgettable canvas. [break][break] Unlike his fellow shinobi, Kōki spends the entirety of the trip— from embarking on the journey at sea to arriving at the gates of the Hidden Leaf— in complete and total silence, hardly saying a word save for a few grunts in confirmation. Reika does the talking, she’s good at that. As far as Kōki is concerned, he’s decoration until violence is required. Behind him, Samehada slowly but steadily eats away at his chakra, keeping his signature muted and making it a challenge for anyone to identify the bijuu sealed within him. [break][break] The only thing that makes Kōki falter the slightest amount is the telltale scent of cooking meat wafting from Yakiniku Q— a restaurant he frequents with an acquaintance of his from this village: a man who shares his struggles with a tailed beast. Before he can wonder what Ren might be doing now, they veer off the path and take a detour towards the village’s memorial. He doesn’t complain— his duty is to follow. [break][break] He pays his silent respects to the shinobi who fought and died for the comfort Konohagakure enjoys today, and wonders what they might think of it now, with its dwindling shinobi population and increasing reliance on tourism. Peace, Kōki thinks to himself, is a double-edged sword. Hard fought for, yet it breeds weakness if left to fester. He’s grateful the Hidden Mist isn’t like this village, though he doesn’t voice his opinion aloud. [break][break] They arrive at the Hokage’s building without incident. Offered a view of the village’s impressive monument, Kōki drags his gaze over each of the rock-carved faces, and muses if they’ll ever run out of space one day. He notes it when the guards at the reception regard him with some suspicion, unable to see much of his face past the shadows cast by his hood. When Yashiro dismisses them, all retreat but Kōki, who remains firmly in his place. [break][break] “If you’re certain.” He says— his first words of the day are low and quiet, barely a decibel above a mere whisper. “It may be prudent to keep at least one of us with you, Lord Mizukage, given the circumstances.” Kōki refers to, of course, the news of the previous Hokage’s sudden passing. Though not privy to the particular political details of the succession, the rumour that they died under suspicious circumstances is widespread gossip in the Hidden Mist.
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i didn't accidentally post with my staff account. nope. not me.
Everyone knew the higher someone climbed up the later of success, the greater the fall and it was either hit the ground running or keel over and surrender to failure. Success in this case was bittersweet. A year only felt like yesterday when the second Hokage passed under unfortunate circumstances, or so that's what the general public was told. A man that was celebrated and honored for his devotion for Konohagakure, abruptly taken from the mortal world. The revelation caused mass grief throughout the village as the overall spirits of its people were all but high.
Kishi got what she wanted and the cost of a life was far from ideal from an outside perspective to those that were nonetheless harmonious. To the now Third Hokage, no matter how peaceful it was, to cause violence had always been a natural instinct. The strongest instinct in nature. From her point of view, the previous Hokage was unaware of just how ruthless the outside world was. She was no better than to act on her instinct against the previous Hokage as means to protect the village against it, but it was a necessity. Such an implicating secret was forever locked behind the gates, but one day everyone would understand Kishi's direction for the village's future.
May his naive soul rest easy.
Not long ago did Kishi received a note that the Mizukage was to visit Konohagakure. The unanticipated visit from an influential figure came as a thunderbolt in the face of a two day notice of arrival; in layman terms, Kishi didn't know what to expect from this meeting nor knew what was up for discussion, even when informed two days in advanced. It was a minor shock in consideration of what Kishi went through in comparison, yet it managed to throw her guard off. Whatever it was, Kishi was prepared. This was nothing new.
Could it be to give condolence? Doubtful.
Kishi was led by one of the guards to the lobby to meet the Mizukage. She's heard a few fascinating facts about the Mizukage and its grim history prior to the current Kage's position, all done at a young age. Despite the tranquility and prosperity that began to flourish in Kirigakure, in some sense, she envied its bellicose culture it carried. It was what Konohagakure desperately needed and if the previous Hokage's death was not a wake up call, then things needed to brought down to even more drastic measures. The majority of its population were civilians, the military budget was cut, it all angered the current Hokage.
Eventually, Kishi finally arrived to the area where the Mizukage supposedly awaited for her advent. After the guard guided Kishi, he bowed at a ninety degree angle and held his posture before he straightened himself out and walked off in the opposite direction. Her expectations were high, aforementioned the Mizukage's accolades and feats. She expected but nothing but the best in front of her.
Though when she actually came face to face with the Mizukage, what was presented to her was all but impressive. There was more than just the Mizukage himself. One was about the same as Kishi's height, if not just slightly shorter than her. Fashion wise, it fell flat. Nothing at all out of the ordinary or anything that hinted any form of authority. He looked like a school boy if anything.
The other one was taller with their face practically concealed. Their build looked lanky, almost pitiful if she had to judge underneath the cloak. Perhaps her expectations were a little too high. If she had to take a guess to the latter, she assumed they were some sort of bodyguard to the Mizukage.
Powerful shinobi to hail from one of the, if not the most, historically brutal major shinobi countries... and they look like this. Disappointing.
Her thoughts were a hypocrisy from how Kishi greeted the duo. With a small sentimental smile curved on her lips, she gave a courteous nod. "Lord Mizukage. I hope your trip to Konohagakure was as smooth as it could be. I'm sure you've heard the... rather unexpected news in regards to the previous Hokage." Her tone wavered, almost at the thought of Kishi herself receiving the news for the first time all acted out accordingly and natural; it was as if she were genuinely saddened at the thought, when in reality, deep down inside of her, she'd do it all again for the greater good of Konohagakure's future.
"And as much as I'd like to think you're here in person to give solace, I think it's more realistic to think that's not the only reason of your presence." Or at the very least, from Kishi's perspective, something allegedly more important given the urgency of this meeting.
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[attr="class","prism-notes"]sorry if this is long! let me know if anything should be changed, edited, etc!
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[attr="class","caesartext"]"Very well, then. You may accompany me." Yashiro nodded, allowing Kōki to accompany him throughout the remainder of his wait. Which, luckily, was a brief one. [break][break] The pitter-patter of steps alerted him, and as he stood there with Kōki in tow, the Mizukage seemed a bit expressionless. He wasn't one for personal feelings and all that jazz. He was about business. [break][break] Although... a persons initial response, or reaction... was always the most pure form of how they truly felt. [break][break] As far as his own, there were none. There's actually much more about Yashiro's past that is hidden, or maybe it's better to say had to be redacted. Certain things were always better to learn in a first-hand experience type of way. [break][break] Or at least, that was the approach Yashiro learned to adapt to. The very way of thinking that led him to his coveted position. Well, coveted by everyone but him, it seemed. For him becoming the Mizukage was just a simple chess move made only to remove the ceiling that the mist village had over its head, so to speak. [break][break] He would tell anymore that honestly he didn't care much for the power or prestige that came with his title. Oh no, Yashiro usurped his position for one reason and one reason only, to seize total control. What was he, a genius, to do when he felt that he was surrounded by clones that did everything his predecessor commanded. Like sheep following their shepherd, or more accurate, lambs following their eventual demise. Maybe it was his militant thinking, but he always knew power came with great responsibility... [break][break] It was just to the world's dismay that he learned this at a young age. Though, he would like to say that it was really more in the favor of the world, his plans. Plans that only he knew: [break][break] "Actually, I don't care much about the death of the Nidaime Hokage..." he said rather bluntly, tilting his head to the side as he peered over at the current Hokage. "Truth is, your economy is doing absolutely horrible. So horrible, in fact, I, personally, have been investing and founding your villages Research Lab. It's not only that however--" he paused for a moment, turning to Kōki for a moment, before turning back towards the Hokage. [break][break] "Your village is in debt to Kirigakure by $164, 842, 650.21 ryō. I was originally scheduled to meet with your predecessor to receive payment. However, with his death, I've heard his assets were...liquidated. However, I still intend to collect...what Konoha owes me." Placing a single digit in the air, and waving it, as in to halt any interjections he sensed would happen. He slightly shook his head. [break][break] "And as far as the cover story for Hasashi..." he started, his voice trailing off for a moment. "The truth about your ascension has nothing to do with the facts. The facts are...Kirigakure will be taking the Kyūbi back to Kirigakure."
With arms crossed against his chest, Kōki curls his fingers into the fabric of his clothes— an attempt to shield himself from the crippling tension between the two Kage that cuts through him sharp like winter winds. Still, his brows knit together as his focus shifts to track the Hokage’s movements as she speaks; she doesn’t address him directly, but he doesn’t expect her to. He offers her a deep, polite nod in silent greeting. [break][break] She bleeds grace and power: a figure suited for both battle and politics, though that should be expected of a village leader. There’s sincerity in the shape of her cautiously chosen words, but Kōki is far too disinterested in the power shifts and struggles of another village to think on it too deeply. Most days, he can hardly bring himself to care about the politics and delicate networks of intrigue within even the Hidden Mist. [break][break] "Your village is in debt to Kirigakure by $164, 842, 650.21 ryō.” [break][break] Are they really going to litigate this here? A normally utterly featureless and emotionless Kōki’s eyes widen a fraction in surprise at Yashiro’s straightforward approach, and he’s glad the hood of his cloak can hide whatever expression he might let slip in the moment. Have the times truly changed so significantly that the basics of diplomatic visit decorum are being ignored in favour of having deeply private political conversations in the open space of a lobby? [break][break] And where does the 21 cents come from? [break][break] Chōmei’s question is a valid one, but best left to ponder at a later time. [break][break] "The truth about your ascension has nothing to do with the facts. The facts are...Kirigakure will be taking the Kyūbi back to Kirigakure." [break][break] Really? Is Kurama coming back with us? Today? [break][break] “Perhaps a nice cup of tea…” Kōki chimes in hesitantly, well aware he’s speaking out of turn. His voice is subdued, not a decibel louder than it needs to be, “And a more private setting with… chairs, might be more suited for these negotiations?” [break][break] He drags his gaze to the nearest person who looks even remotely like they work for the Hokage as a receptionist or administrator, and silently hopes they pick up on the tension in the room and brings them something calming.
