Leaders in their Own Sense

((For reference's sake, continuing from here.))

Both the Mizukage and his assistant were already standing when Erwin entered the room, which seemed a little odd but it was none of his business. Erwin mainly took note of the fact that they both returned his respectful nod with slight bows of their own, a detail some might consider useless but to him it spoke of mutual respect, a trait any good leader should have. Flashing the exiting Aria a polite smile Erwin took Ōsharu up on his silent suggestion and took his seat just as he was doing the same, making sure not to bend the folder tucked into his jacket. "Thank you for the compliment… Err… Erwin, I believe it was…? I'm horrible with names, but the legacy of a person… I do quite fine with those, your reputation precedes you… This is the type of driving force that Kirigakure needs! So yes, I am very free to be enlightened by one such as yourself."

"You're too kind Mr. Kōkkai, I am simply a soldier who's willing to do whatever's necessary for his home..." Erwin replied in a humble tone and a polite smile, he genuinely didn't care for praise. He didn't mind it but he didn't have any sort of ego to stroke, not that he thought the Kage was trying to do that, the friendliness was appreciated though. All the while he was wondering whether or not Ōsharu knew the full truth behind his exile. It was possible that he did and understood how far necessity can go when it came to protecting a nation, or it was possible that he didn't have the exact details but knew of Erwin's "anything for the greater good" mentality. Regardless, the truth could be found out later. "... And yes, Erwin is correct. Seeing as one of the themes of the day is defense I figured it would be fitting to propose a couple of ideas I've been working on."

As Erwin spoke he unbuttoned the top two buttons of his officer's jacket, reached in with his left hand, and pulled the folder nestled between his officer's jacket and flak jacket on his right side from within. He then offered the folder to Ōsharu for him to look over. "The first document is a map of our country with details regarding key defensive locations, some we already have outposts on and some that we don't. The second is a diagram for a communications network we used back in the Land of Iron where traditional communication methods were potentially deadly or plainly impossible." The map Erwin spoke of was folded a few times to allow for it to fit in the folder and included the borders of nearby countries. It was hand drawn and extremely detailed including every landmark, every small town, every road, every body of water, terrain, every outpost known to him, every island, and even popular shipping routes.

The most notable additions to this map were marked in red. Arrows were the most prominent of these separate additions, these marked the potential "paths" the Land of Iron would have used should the need for infiltration or invasion ever arise, as well as some of Erwin's own strategic "paths". The less noticeable additions were locations spanning the entire country that they had yet to build an outpost at, as far as Erwin knew at least, some in remote locations and others within cities near strategic commercial and public locations. These outposts were marked in two ways, an open circle or a square with an X inside. Down at the bottom of the map there was a legend explaining what each marking meant, most were self explanatory but it noted the difference between the two types of outposts, O being visible and ☒ being hidden.

The second document, also hand drawn and quite detailed, was a packet with various diagrams detailing the application and use of a fuinjutsu based communication system. Included within this packet was a 2D diagram showing different variations of the seal and how they linked to matching seals; 3D cut-away diagrams of the seal being placed within a ham radio-esq device, a smaller device resembling a walkie talkie, and an ordinary everyday coffee pot; A diagram detailing additional information sent along with vocal transmission, primarily the name or code of a previously registered chakra signature and an “unknown” for other signatures, which was located between the inner and outer seals just below the inner seal; And a diagram detailing how a registered user could deactivate all connected seals by breaking the outer seal on the original while channeling chakra into the seal. The seals themselves consisted of two parts, an inner number or symbol and an outer design that completely encompassed the inner seal.

Sadly Erwin wasn’t a fuinjutsu expert and couldn’t actually give the Kage a working example. These documents were simply part of the information he was privy to, which was a lot given his former rank, while serving within the Land of Iron. ”I’d recommend keeping these documents very close at hand, if not destroy them, after you’re finished with them. I’d also be glad to go over any details you’d like me to expand upon and answer any questions you may have, as well as take any constructive criticism you can offer, but first…” Erwin paused for a moment, scanning the Kage’s office for anything resembling a tea kettle. ”... would there be any chance that we could have a cup of tea while we talk?”

[Word Count: 859]

Daemon walked through the village shortly after Lord Mizukage's speech as sworms of people passed him gazing upon him. He had been dressed in full Anbu attire which had been appropriate for the event. His mask sat tightly on his face as both it and his combative attire was shrouded in a black trench coat with a rather large concealing hood. Normally most people in Daemon line of work operated through darkness staying concealed at all time but this occasion was deemed necessary incase rowdy figures wanted to cause trouble. Many question had ran through his Daemon's about the on going events that he taken apart of in the past few months. He worried not about the safety of this village as he and everyone else who had the will would protect it with their life yet he took pride knowing that everyone mattered here.

Daemon current goal was to meet up with the Mizukage to act as ambassador for the Anbu Black Ops after the assurance of and reveal of the safety system. He would enter the administrative building as he passed the Mizkage's assistant giving her a solid nod to let reassure his being here. He would travel up a small flight if stairs as he knocked upon the double doors while talking to announce his presence after receiving an order of, entrance "Lord Mizukage, Daemon Ame reporting in."After being asked to enter he would notice some one had known to be Erwin Ekkehard a current Jounin of the village. Daemon would close the door before removing his mask placing it within his coat while removing his hood. It would seem that he entered at the end of a conversation which seeming to result in Erwin searching for tea.

Before continuing on with the report of the prior event he would grab the tray of both warm tea and coffee with everything needed for both the liquids for the small group to enjoy. He would take his appropriate stance to address the Kage as well as lowering the tray just enough for his majesty's guest. "Lord Juudiame Mizukage, I am glad to announce that everyone has returned back to their respective dwellings without any issues or problems. Also the are pleased with the progress and have sent me on their behalf to say thank you." Daemon would bow forward not forgetting to balance the tray among other things while still keeping it high enough for the quest. Raising from the bow he would gesture the Mizukage towards the hot beverages.

He felt his business wasn't done here normally after reporting in the ambassador for the Anbu would be dismissed but he felt there as further reason of him being here something no one yet knew or was hard to explain whatever it was Daemon had to know both out of pure curiosity and for common knowledge. He wasn't always in agreement with the choices of the higher ups but he had to agree the Mizukage's new defense system. It allowed for perfect detection off both native and foreign chakra signatures. He released a mental smile a he nodded in happiness...

WC: 521
Chakra Pool: 250

"Yea... Whatever is necessary for one's home... I respect that very much so..." It seemed his initial mention of necessity triggered a mild "brainstorm" within Ōsharu, or at least the Kage's slightly distant response lead Erwin to believe so, but it was still unclear to him whether or not the young man knew the full extent of his version of “whatever is necessary”. Regardless, his folder of mentally replicated documents certainly seemed to peak Ōsharu’s curiosity. While his Kage sat in silence poring over his hand drawn map Erwin took the time to observe Ōsharu, he was certain that presenting this information would stir some potentially disturbing questions within the young man and would reveal something about himself as well. How better to ensure one’s own survival then introducing defensive measures that you created yourself. If something unfortunate were to happen and the events of his past repeat themselves Erwin would know exactly where not to go and how to evade detection, he would also be able to offer this information to someone else to help solidify his place elsewhere, but hopefully it would never have to come to that.

Erwin’s attention was drawn to the map as Ōsharu positioned his index fingers on the map and stretched one of his pinkies out to reach a third point. The two points where his index fingers were marked the two closest stretches of water between the closest mainland countries, the Land of Fire and the Land of Lightning, while the pinky marked a spot just off the coast of the Drowning Paths. "Where my small finger lies my students and I, Squad Zero, will be venturing there on a mission to acquire a few... Umm... Let's just call them pets for now... The Sea bears many unique creatures that would do well to serve Kirigakure as a part of their defense, thus upon returning their positions will be set up in these locations... The Great Naruto Bridge and along the far side of the village that leads way between Kumogakure no Sato and the Land of Sound... I'll fill you in more as the events unfold, but for right now... I'm playing this one pretty close to the chest..." ”I understand.” Erwin stated as he nodded in acknowledgement of the Kage’s secrecy, the mere mentioning of this plan was likely something a very few souls had heard and he counted himself lucky that Ōsharu trusted him enough to tell him this much.

After explaining the purpose of the second document and allowing the Kage to look over the packet of diagrams Erwin went on to ask for any possibility of tea, which was when he picked up the faint sound of movement outside of the Kage’s office just before another individual revealed their intention of entering by knocking a few times, who entered shortly after. ”Lord Mizukage, Daemon Ame reporting in.” The man, as far as Erwin could currently tell, introduced himself. The name Daemon Ame was unfamiliar to Erwin, but he understood why. It was obvious by the rather concealing attire, not to mention the mask, that the assumed man was a member of Kirigakure’s shadow forces, the ANBU. Very few were privy to their personal identities, usually only the Kage and select elders. For the man to trust his identity to Erwin was rather surprising, but it meant that he was considered to be within that rather small circle. It also could have simply been a mistake, but that seemed unlikely as the man went on to remove his mask and lower his hood after closing the door to the Mizukage’s office. "Ahh Daemon... If you have not already met Mr. Ekkehard, please introduce yourself. He is but one of our active Jounin who has been tasked with the responsibility of overseeing the future of Kirigakure... Our genin of course..."

Ōsharu even considered Erwin trustworthy enough to know the man’s name, that or he hid his disapproval of Daemon introducing himself before someone else well. Daemon was even polite enough to fix a tray of tea and coffee for them before joining the two of them around the Kage’s desk, respectable. ”It’s a pleasure Mr. Ame, and please, call me Erwin.” Erwin spoke politely as he greeted their ANBU visitor, taking up his offer of a hot beverage when Daemon lowered the tray for him. ”Thank you.” ”Lord Juudiame Mizukage, I am glad to announce that everyone has returned back to their respective dwellings without any issues or problems. Also they are pleased with the progress and have sent me on their behalf to say thank you.” Erwin fixed himself a cup of black tea as the man reported in, which didn’t take very long seeing as he didn’t like any additives such as sugar or cream. Daemon seemed like a very formal individual, at least in front of Ōsharu, which Erwin respected. "Very good, very good Daemon... I aim to please the masses, though I do pity the state in which our village has become... Slowly, but surely, I'll continue righting the wrongs that have plagued this nation for so long... Hopefully, you two will lend aid along the way"

”Of course Mr. Kōkkai, you have my support, and my blade should you ever require use of it.” Erwin responded in a professional tone, taking a sip of tea afterwards giving Daemon time to respond. As Ōsharu cupped his hand over his drink Erwin noticed that a small amount of salt began to pour into the beverage directly from the Kage’s hand, had he not been previously accustomed to some of the natures of the Kōkkai clan this might have provoked a reaction, but it was something he was familiar with after spending seven years in Kirigakure’s military. ”Speaking of which, I was wondering if there was anything in particular I could assist you with?” Erwin asked in a professional tone, taking a sip of tea after he finished. Truth be told he was curious about the activities of Kirigakure’s ANBU, but didn’t wish to seem a little “too” inquisitive. Back in the Land of Iron he spent most of his years either working for or directing the actions of the Samurai Army’s equivalent, SOAR. He was used to living with a constant influx of information from the shadows, information that he wasn’t privy to within Kirigakure, not that Ōsharu or anyone else within Kirigakure would have known this.

[Word Count: 861]
[Total: 1720]

Daemon would nod in agreement to the Mizukage's words he felt it was appropriate to properly greet Mr. Ekkehard. Daemon himself was tasked with acknowledging himself with most of the populous of Kirikagure in which had remembers passing Eriwns file. He knew only of the man greatest achievements, reliability, and loyalty of past years which in Daemon's book someone who had already earned his plentiful respect.

"Ahhh, Mr. Erwin I have heard so much about you, it would seem your reputation precedes you. It is an absolute pleasure and honor to meet your acquaintance; I would hope in the near future we would have an opportunity to work together..." Daemon was an expert in flattery and even more he had enjoyed doing it. Something that brought him great joy was when the person actually deserved it, "and please call me Daemon."

Now sharing his attention between the two equally Daemon stood with both pride and happiness upon hearing Lord Mizukage last statement, "But of course Lord Mizukage with this body I will fight to until the last breath to ensure the Will of Mist flourishes in both young and old spirits. This village has been my place of happiness, security, survival, and most importantly enlightenment. I will follow you and anyone willing to better it always."

Daemon spoke deeply from his heart which certainly broke the Anbu code but he had been know to be, "The Anbu's Unique Child." Hearing Erwin's words of greater assistance Daemon's own curiosity would peak. He normally wouldn't be the one to intrude on ones own goals and ambitions but he felt this was a once and a life time opportunity.

Looking intensely at the Mizukage, Daemon felt the urge to ask for work himself possibly a dual mission to personally familiarize himself with the talents Mr. Erwin Ekkehard who himself seemed to hold a passion with the way of the blade, "Could there possibly be anything in which needs taking care of? I would think both Mr. Ekkehard and I could flawlessly hand most of the impossible tasks."

WC: 340
CP: 250

"Ahhh, Mr. Erwin I have heard so much about you, it would seem your reputation precedes you. It is an absolute pleasure and honor to meet your acquaintance; I would hope in the near future we would have an opportunity to work together… and please call me Daemon." ”Likewise, Daemon.” Erwin replied in a pleasant tone, Daemon was certainly experienced with the art of the silver tongue. His flattery seemed genuine enough, but one can never be one-hundred percent certain of a shadow operative’s true feelings and intentions. Regardless of whether or not Daemon’s words were from the heart or from the mind it spoke well of him, either he meant them and was truly a civil individual or was skilled enough to mask and replicate emotions very efficiently, working with the man some time could prove a rather enjoyable experience. "But of course Lord Mizukage with this body I will fight to until the last breath to ensure the Will of Mist flourishes in both young and old spirits. This village has been my place of happiness, security, survival, and most importantly enlightenment. I will follow you and anyone willing to better it always." Daemon’s response to Ōsharu appeared every bit as heartfelt as his flattery, if not more so, something that was uncommon among Erwin’s understanding of the typical ANBU operative’s behavior. Then again in his past experiences most exceptional individuals of an organization tend to stand out, one way or another. Those willing to go against code are the only ones capable of changing it, for better or worse. It will be interesting to see where Daemon ends up down the road.

Erwin couldn’t help but take note of Daemon’s actions after questioning the Kage about any specific assistance he could provide, more specifically the intense look that the young man gave Ōsharu, a look that implied barely withheld questions or comments. "Hmm… As strange as this request may be, I need you to seek out the aid of a man… He is a medical expert reigning from Suna and goes by the name of Shiro… He is a high risk target, thus if push comes to shove show no restraint if battle takes place… But, the objective of this assignment is to escort him from his place of residence somewhere on the  outskirts of the village to me… I have contacted him in advance so you should be able to meet up with him on the night of the next full moon, three days from now…" An intriguing request, a medical expert from the Land of Wind? Was Shiro a defector similar to himself? Perhaps a spy? Many questions ran through Erwin’s mind as he picked up the folder Ōsharu pulled out of his desk, which he immediately opened and started reading over it’s contents. "Could there possibly be anything in which needs taking care of? I would think both Mr. Ekkehard and I could flawlessly hand most of the impossible tasks." Yep, Daemon was holding back a question. Erwin certainly wouldn’t turn down the young ANBU’s aid in this mission, but that was up to the Kage. A joint operation with the ANBU could provide a stepping stone towards regaining some of the perks he had while running SOAR, but Ōsharu’s response of quiet contemplation likely meant they wouldn’t be working together.

"Daemon… There is a shipping vessel traveling in from the land of sound… To my knowledge there is a shinobi on board who is not one of our own… May you please escort him to my office, he has contacted me prior to his arrival so no force is needed, unless it is needed… Also, on board seek out the Captain, his name is Tenshi… He has a… Gift, of sorts for me more so the village… Please escort that to me as well if you will…" Yep, no joint operation this time. Two individuals of different foreign nationalities and a “gift” for the village, to say Erwin was curious about Ōsharu’s plans would be an understatement, but he was patient enough to wait for answers instead of questioning the Kage. The less said between them now the less chance there is for unwanted individuals to learn of their plans. Erwin didn’t lift his gaze from the contents within the file as Ōsharu gave Daemon his assignment but his ears were always “on alert”, which is how heard an individual approach the door to the Kage’s office just before they knocked. Erwin closed the folder and tucked it into his jacket before this not so new arrival entered the office to make sure they wouldn’t see its contents, although seeing as it was Ōsharu’s assistant the secrecy probably wasn’t necessary, nevertheless better safe than sorry no? As Ōsharu’s assistant went to relay her information to him Erwin rose from his chair and turned towards Daemon to give them what minute amount of privacy he could.

”It seems that our assignments lead us to different destinations this time around, but I’m certain we’ll get the opportunity to work together in the near future.” Erwin said in a friendly but professional tone, although before he could say anything else his attention was drawn to Ōsharu as the Kage cleared his throat. "Well gentlemen, it appears that I have some business to attend to… You have your orders, hopefully I hear back of you swiftly… Until then, god speed…" ”Of course Mr. Kōkkai, thank you.” Erwin spoke in his professional tone while he bowed slightly towards the young Kage before turning to the ANBU operative next to him. ”It was a pleasure making your acquaintance, until next time Daemon.” His toned switched to a more friendly one, but nonetheless professional, as he spoke to the young ANBU operative. After offering his hand for a firm handshake with Daemon Erwin turned towards the Kage once more and nodded farewell before exiting the office and making his way home, if he was to travel to the Land of Wind there were preparations to be made. The Howling Desert was every bit as treacherous as the Land of Iron’s frozen northern wastes, just not as cold during the night and far hotter in the day.

[Exit]

[Word Count: 687]
[Total: 2407]

Daemon held back a sigh of disappointment by masking it in somewhat sincere smile, "It would seem that way Erwin." Daemon would sense a presence approaching the door as he was assigned his own specialized missions, "Thank you, Lord Mizukage I will be sure to execute the mission quickly and flawlessly."

The presence behind the door had finally reached it. He had not yet gained the ability to sense who exactly the chakra signature belonged to but he would be able to unlock that talent. He would return his focus to the Mizukage as he stood up upon his assistant entrance. Upon receiving his farewell from the Mizukage, Daemon would nod in return to show his agreement.

Turning to Erwin as he gave his farewell Daemon would extend his own hand taking up the offer of a shake, "The pleasure is all mine Erwin, whenever you need something or help feel free to stop by the Hunter-Nin headquarters and ask for me directly." Releasing his hand Daemon would wait until he exited the office before doing so himself. This had really been a meeting of Leaders in their own Sense.

[Exited]

WC: 188 FWC: 1,049
CP: 250