It's Time [Nyguyen]

A lot had happened in the latest campaign of Meijing City from what he’s been told. Rin was only told of what had happened from Maiori, his mother, as he has been under her watchful eye since the Clan Meeting. The eyes of scorn and disdain became a common sight for the Outcast. Everyone knew what Rin had done, and almost everyone hated him for it. What people once gave him praise for became the voice of conspiracy. Everything had been stripped away from him, even the right to call himself an Uchiha. In this world of shinobi, the walls that Rin used to feel safe had since become invisible jail cells.

Yet even so, even Rin hadn’t missed the detail that the only one who pulled a success was Kimiko Uchiha. Which meant everyone including Nyguyen Uchiha had lost their objectives, and while Konohagakure managed to pull a victory it ultimately was done under Kimiko’s prowess and wits. Honestly Rin silently commended Kimiko for pulling off such a feat, but the word of an Outcast had no weight in this land. Even so the materialistic meant nothing to Rin so long as the threat from the shadows continued to exist. As much as Rin planned and strived to take out the puppeteer before the Disciples are resurrected. Something told Rin that at their current rate of progression the Disciples might succeed in being resurrected. In which case Rin must prepare with the mindset of fighting the Five Disciples if need be. Possibly with a bijuu or two at their side even.

Thus came the ultimate decision to completely harness Kurama’s chakra, and while the unfortunate part was that Rin would be using it for the war efforts. Rin ultimately wished to build up their strength to serve as the bulwark and spear over the lands. Ironic that he wished to protect the lands from the very same ancestors that ruled there once before. This decision of Rin’s must be brought to light with the village’s Kage, and said Hokage would be better found in his office. Or so Rin reckoned.

Garbed in his simple grey long sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbow, revealing scarred arms save for his right hand. The right hand up to his forearm is wrapped with sealing cloth, and the cloth held a long series of fuuinjutsu writing. Even so the exposed arms appeared to have intricate patterns of scar tissue. Almost like someone took a knife and carved the symbols deep into his flesh from the shoulders all the way to the tip of his fingers. His choice for pants was a pair of slightly baggy dark blue pants with a pair of sandals. Rin did have his chokuto and pair of steel armguards on him, but they were confiscated the moment Rin came to the Hokage Building. Of course he wasn’t alone either for Maiori was escorting him to the Hokage’s Office.

Assuming the door is closed, Maiori knocks on the Hokage’s door twice before she spoke with respective authority.

”Lord Hokage, may we enter?” Maiori asked as her midnight black hair was pulled up while garbed in the typical chunin gear. Her hands were folded over the small of her back. For a moment, just for a moment, Maiori glanced over her shoulder at Rin that wasn’t filled with hatred. Little did Rin knew that Maiori had witnessed cases of PTSD from him. Like his mind was stuck in the previous fights in a loop within his dreams. Rin’s crimson eyes shifted over to the side as he kept both hands at his sides where everyone could see them.

Nyguyen was at his desk doing his paperwork as he often was. In comparison to the horrors of war and the pressure of military leadership, it was heaven on earth. It gave him a chance to exercise his writing skills along with his penchant for clerical administration. Nyguyen would have preferred a nice tenure in academia as a Dean or perhaps a Provost. Unfortunately, the circumstances of his birth and the demands of his nation called him into a different line of work. The Uchiha was a Kage now and that meant the afternoons spent doing paperwork were but a fraction of his true responsibilities. War was raging on the continent and battles were being fought in nearly every country. The Mountain War had been won in large part due to Kimiko's efforts but it was he who had locked in the treaty. He gave himself some credit although that was partially to dull the pain of what the conflict had done to his own students. For now, Nyg drowned his guilt in expense reports and executive orders.

Nyguyen looked up from the stack of papers when he heard a knock on the door. He recognized the woman's voice as being Maiori's. He had been in regular contact with her since Rin's imprisonment. He made sure the young man wanted for nothing but he also knew that a golden cage was still a cage. Fortunately, with the Farfour Accords now signed and dotted, he actually had a bit of good news to deliver the woman for once.

"You may" he said from his desk.

Nyg was wearing the standard Hokage robes, dorky hat included.

After the verbal confirmation, Maiori opened the door and with a single step inside of the office Maiori saluted the Hokage. Her dark eyes focused as she wielded the respectful authority as her position allowed.

"Pardon our intrusion, but Rin Tohsaka wished to discuss a sensitive subject with you Lord Hokage." Rin who was behind Maiori raised a brow of how she chose her words. Of course, anything to do with the bijuu was considered to be a sensitive subject. Maiori stepped to the side as only then Maiori allowed Rin to enter the office. Upon entering, Rin saluted the Hokage mainly out of habit, but part of it was because Rin knew that he had to chose his words with care. Not just because this man was the Hokage, but because this man was an Uchiha. Given Rin's reputation, if the Uchiha desired they could have Rin be executed on the spot. Most of them already want to behead the man after all.

"Good Afternoon Nyguyen sir, allow me to express my relief when I heard your campaign had succeeded. Although, from what I've heard, it was a close call." Maiori shot a glare at Rin as a visual reminder to mind his words. Yet Rin pretended that Maiori wasn't in the room for the time being as the door was closed behind them. Rin's ghost of a smile appeared on his lips as Rin followed up with a question of concern.

"How are you holding up sir?" Maiori remained quiet unless spoken to inside the room with her hands folded behind the small of her back. Her eyes focused onto Rin's movements, from every breath he took to the slightest movement of his hands. Granted, the monstrous power that's contained within his right hand still unnerved her to this moment. Maiori had never seen it in action, but the Sharingan revealed information about the demonic chakra within his arm.

Nyguyen looked up from his paperwork and was surprised to see Rin Uchiha alongside his mother. Normally he was to stay on or near the Konoha Grand Training Facility but he assumed that this was rather important. The man's face was stern yet neutral. He didn't think Rin was a bad person but the young man's questionable decision-making made him a difficult asset to rely on. Even if he was formerly kin, Nyg couldn't afford to put his trust in a boy who had jeopardized the village on several occasions. He nodded to acknowledge the salute. It wasn't necessary but he appreciated the gesture.

Rin congratulated Nyguyen on a successful military campaign but before he could smile, the lad offered a backhanded compliment. The Hokage would have died if Kimiko had not negotiated their withdrawal from Meijing. It was a sour note on an otherwise admirable military accomplishment. Nyguyen grunted in response and crossed his arms waiting for the pup to get to the point.

"As well as any leader protecting his country from the horrors of war. The enemy has us locked in a stalemate along the northeastern border. No failure but no progress either. But we aren't here to discuss how I am doing. Maiori said you have something sensitive to bring to my attention. I'd like to hear it."

A stalemate, so it was. Frankly Rin hoped that warfront would come to a conclusion as the sooner the better. However, in wars things were never simple nor easy. These things were never quick either, hence was why everyone had avoided wars for so long. Back then nobody could afford a war, but now everyone is gunning for it. Then again, this war was perhaps inevitable to occur, and the worst part was that the worse hasn't happened yet.

Rin nodded his head in agreement regarding Nyguyen's question.

"That is correct. When Akihiro attacked Nozomi, we witnessed a power that gave her extraordinary abilities even if it was for a brief moment. That power I believe came from the bijuu she carries, and from my understanding the only way any Jinchuriki can achieve it is by fighting and extracting the bijuu's chakra." Rin started off with an example then explained how that power came to be. A small build up as to what Rin was getting at. Maiori's eyes slightly squinted as there was a bit of concern on her expression.

"To put it bluntly, I wish to take on Kyuubi once more so that we have an extra edge against Nozomi and the upcoming Disciples." If anything, Rin wanted to make sure that he hasn't gotten rusty. Maiori, who had been silent since she announced her arrival with Rin, continued to look like she's tied between concern and dedicated to guarding Nyguyen from Rin. Not that he would do something brash, but one could never be too careful around such a compromised asset.

"Additionally, I was wondering if you would accept my aid in the next campaign. If not, I understand."

"You wish to take part in the war?" Maiori suddenly chipped in as Rin looked over his shoulder towards her. He considered for a second, and then nodded.

"If diplomacy fails, then the sooner we wrap this wrap up, the better. If I must be directly involved to do so, then so be it." On that note, Maiori's dark eyes shifted over to Nyguyen as she didn't respond verbally. She questioned his motives and what Rin was getting at. Frankly as much as she hates Rin, and she's hurt by him. Maiori doesn't want the young man she raised to be anymore involved in this war than he has to. No decent parent would want to send their child to war, blood-related or not.

Nyguyen listened as Rin explained that he had seen the full power of a jinchurikki firsthand. This power could be unlocked only through a violent struggle with one's proverbial inner demon. The Hokage leaned forward and steepled his hands as he considered Rin's words. Unleashing a Bijuu and fighting it sounded rather dangerous. Of course, this wasn't how the control fight worked but Nyguyen was ignorant on the subject so his assumption was that Rin was asking him because of the tremendous risk posed to the village.

"So you want to unleash the Kyuubi so that you can fight him and take his power? Thereby unlocking this secondary reserve? The risk is incalculable....not just for yourself but this village. The last time you fought a Bijuu, Konoha hung in the balance and we were only saved by the machinations of a foreign enemy and the cost was nearly five year's worth of instability. I'm sorry but the answer is no Rin...unless you can get Akihiro to vouch for the soundness of this plan.
"

When Rin asked to fight on the frontlines, Nyguyen studied him closely. Rin appeared to be a mostly honest boy but he didn't think things through. This was evidenced by his latest scheme to ring more power out of his Bijuu. That said, the war was locked in a stalemate and Konoha's forces were rapidly being depleted in the trenches. The war of attrition technically favored their side but if they were bled harshly enough, they could be vulnerable to a last ditch knockout blow. If he could send Rin to soften them up then perhaps he could of some use. They had discussed using him as a weapon during the upcoming war against the Disciples and this would be a nice beta test before the real launch. Nyg also recognized the wisdom of Rin's position. The faster a decisive victory was secured and Kumo cowed, the more they could start putting their resources towards a unified front against the Society. The Hokage nodded and stated:

"Okay. You wish to be involved in this campaign, then I will give you the means to get involved. You won't be the commanding officer for this mission but you'll be a close second. I have a breakthrough into the Land of Hot Springs planned. There will be a massive diversion in the Trenches and you will take this squad into Hot Springs to find and destroy their base, resources, and anything else of value."

The refusal to the bijuu was understandable as Rin knew such a risk would be extreme. Especially if Rin were defeated, and then the entire village would be in jeopardy. That would certainly be problematic for everyone. Unfortunately time wasn't on their side, or so Rin had believed. The mention of getting Akihiro's approval brought a couple of thoughts together. Such as the intuition of Akihiro would probably go along with it in exchange they help Akihiro take on the Two Tails first. Rin felt like that was probably the best way to go, yet he knew they didn't want Rin to become too strong where they can't control him anymore. However, Rin needed to be on the inside of Konohagakure and win them over from the inside. He'd have a better chance of gaining their favor doing this than going against them.

"I'd have to get into contact with Akihiro first, and unfortunately he's a hard man to contact. Granted given the circumstances, not too many people are eager to be in the same vicinity as me." Rin's tone wasn't that of anger, but it reflected the sadness of being shunned by the very same people he protected. Such was the price he had to pay unfortunately, and one he planned to bear to the grave. Perhaps it was Rin's readiness to get into action despite knowing that the next day might be his last honestly scared Maiori. Yet it wasn't her place to interfere so her hands that were folded behind the small of her back gripped her wrists tightly.

"Strike while the pan is hot? Very well then. When do I need to be ready?" Rin inquired so that he can get the general idea of when to rally and prepare accordingly.

Nyguyen was glad that Rin understood why he couldn't let him just chase power and put the village at risk. The former Uchiha mentioned that Akihiro was a difficult man to get ahold of to which Nyg shrugged. The lad had been better at being around but there was no gurantee on that front. Fortunately, Nyguyen was willing to try and tug on Aki's ear. The Sparrow might not answer the Fox's call but he owed his allegiance to the Hokage and Nyguyen suspected that if it was his voice that rang out, he'd receive a response.

"I can see about contacting him on your behalf....but I suggest you give him a more detailed plan than you have me or I expect you'll receive the same answer"

Nyguyen folded his hands and spoke candidly. "Immediately. I will draw up the clearances after we are done here. You are to lead them to Hot Spring's assets and destroy them...totally....thoroughly...."

As Mitsu walked through the streets of Konohagakure she internally fretted over a great many things. Firstly, everything in Konoha looked, sounded and smelled completely different than anything she was used to. Under other circumstances she would have been thrilled to be visiting the village, even if just on official business, but today all the environment left her with was a vague sense of wonder mostly buried underneath anxiety. It was wholly unpleasant, and not something that she felt was helping her to look ‘official’. She wove her way around people, avoiding coming too close to anyone as she followed the directions the guards at the gate had given her.

She could feel her skin pricking with irritation as sweat trickled down her spine and she would silently chastise her own ‘weakness’. She had never thought of herself as weak before, but since Chen had started saying it, the word ‘weak’ had been harder and harder to not apply to herself and her actions. Mitsu was suffering from PTSD, though still didn’t know what to call the nightmares and discomfort. ‘No, that’s not fair. You wouldn’t be here if you were weak. You’ve learned a lot since the war, you can handle this.’ The little pep talk helped to put more confidence in her step and the white haired and pink eyed albino woman would stride up to the doors of the government building. On her face she kept a kind smile as she offered her credentials again to the guards and entered the building.

Once inside she would pause and look around, unsure of where she was supposed to go next. She thought it was a reasonable assumption that the Hokage’s office was more centrally located within the complex, a decision she would make if she had to choose its placement. Surrounded by guards and protected from the elements while offering easy access to any other offices in the building. However that didn’t tell her what she was supposed to do Growing up, quite literally in the middle of the desert, she hadn’t learned much about proper protocol when visiting a foreign nation’s leader. With a subtle nod of affirmation to herself, she would walk purposefully towards the most important looking door she could see.

Reaching for the door handle brought a quick movement from the guards inside and she would cringe as her hand paused just before touching it. Of course that was the wrong answer, she had been fortunate so far in that most people she had met and interacted with were quite friendly and were not so much interested in administrative etiquette. ‘Mistake number one. C’mon Mitsu, you gotta do better.’ With a sheepish smile and a quiet “I’m sorry.” she would withdraw her hand and curl it into a loose fist. Raising her hand she would knock gently on the door, pulling her hand back to quickly smooth out any wrinkles in her white, brown and gold dress, double checking that her fans Daybreak and Nightfall were secured at her hips. She was representing Iwagakure and she wanted to look respectable, even if she thought ‘respectable’, what most people seemed to assert it was anyway, was synonymous with ‘uninteresting’. The short woman would thread her fingers together in front of her and wait patiently until she was either turned away or allowed to enter what was hopefully the Hokage’s office.

Nyguyen spoke of getting Akihiro's ear about the matter with Kyuubi, and Rin let it be. Truthfully had Rin gone straight to Akihiro, the man would either laugh it off or even tack harsher conditions during his stay. In other words, less than favorable. However, if Nyguyen were to talk to Akihiro instead, then the chances of persuasion would increase from success.

"Ultimately, teamwork is key to winning against Kurama. Preferably someone who is versed in the sealing arts or can effectively restrain a colossal creature. Someone well versed in Doton or Suiton can perform these tasks very well. Kurama indeed cannot be taken lightly, whether the fight takes place in the world, or within my head." Rin spoke to further suggest as to who would be best suited to assist. Ironically, the best person to assist is either Nozomi herself or Akihiro. Nozomi has power in almost every aspect, and Akihiro has the best mind compared to everyone else in Konohagakure. Still, it was up to Nyguyen whether or not he'd go along with it. Maiori's expression continued to retain her composure as she kept pressure on her hands behind Maiori's back to coup with the concern within her.

Just as Nyguyen gave his answer as to when Rin was to start heading out for the Land of Hot Springs. Rin heard the person approaching before the knock came as he turned his red eyes over his shoulder. There was no voice that came with the knock, so Rin's eyes shifted back over to Nyguyen as if to silently ask if he should stay. Old habits of guarding someone of high authority came to mind. However, Rin had the feeling that he was the last person anyone would expect or want to guard the Hokage from a threat. So with a reminder of his place, Rin nods his head.

"It will be done." Then Rin's eye shifted over to Maiori who had been silent. Maiori nodded her head before she proceeded to open the door. Revealing the mistress behind door number one, and frankly it was someone that neither Rin or Maiori recognized. Maiori paused as she looked over to Nyguyen as if asking for his orders.

In his head? What? Nyguyen was confused at the last part of Rin's sentence. The kid made so little sense at times but made the most sense at others. He knew Rin was credible, the meeting with Yui had proven that his memories were valid, but he couldn't get over the feeling that the former Uchiha was way in over his head when it came to this Bijuu business. Fortunately for him, taking the beast out of his body was off the table. Rin probably had the best relationship with Kurama at this point and attempting to re-seal it would likely make the entity a more attractive target. There was also of course the peace treaty with Iwa that had just been signed. Kami had given him a Jinchurikki and it came in the form of Rin, given the chaos of late, he decided to be thankful that it was in his hands and not someone else's. When Rin agreed to the mission, Nyguyen was about to send him on his way when he heard a knock on the door.

Nyguyen's secretary would buzz through a discreete voice-comm system:

"Lord Hokage, Mitsukira Tatsudashi on behalf of Iwagakure is here to see you sir"

The gates had sent word of her arrival and with it confirmation of her identity. Nyguyen raised an eyebrow. He had not been expecting an ambassador from Iwa so soon. Normally, he'd dismiss Rin and send the girl in but given Rin's relationship to Yui and thus the Earth Country, he decided it might be fruitful to have him present. If the conversation veered into matters that he did not want Rin or his mother to hear he could just as easily order them to leave. Nyguyen called out: "Come in"  

He then leaned back in his chair and put on a stern expression as the pale kunoichi entered his office.

Mitsukira had no idea what to expect of the man that had declared war on her nation. Part of her was secretly hoping that he was a kindly man that had been part of a fairly large misunderstanding. She hoped that she would walk into his office and it would be all smiles and tea and pleasant conversation. She wanted that scene so badly that she could almost taste it, and it was that vision that gave her the courage to walk through the door as she heard a male voice call out for her to come in.

The first thing she noticed was the stern expression on the Hokage’s face, and it immediately made her feel as though she was guilty of something and about to be reprimanded for it, her face clearly showing her fear. She felt her mouth go dry and suddenly the room seemed far too small. Averting her gaze from the Uchiha she would glance at the other two occupants of the office space that threatened to suffocate her with its lack of oxygen. A young man with scars visible on his arms and a dark haired woman. Taking a breath and swallowing she would take a step forward towards the desk, nodding at the man and woman and directing her focus on Nyguyen Uchiha.

With a formal and graceful bow that placed her on her knees on the floor she would try to speak, her melodic voice coming out as almost a squeak at first as her mouth and tongue refused to cooperate with her nervousness. ‘It’s alright Mitsu, just speak. Iwa is depending on you again, don’t fail them.’ Clearing her throat she would begin again. “Greetings from Iwagakure Hokage-sama. Thank you for seeing me so quickly, I come with an urgent request. I am Mitsukira Tatsudashi, though you may call me Mitsu.” The sentence came out of habit, her usual caveat to her long name that she gave when introducing herself to people. The sentiment was possibly inappropriate given the setting, but she hadn’t exactly been given ‘how to greet the leader of the nation that your nation is a vassal to’ lessons, and so she tried to remember how friendly and confident she used to be. She would raise herself up from her bow and smile as warmly as she could given her anxiety, her pink eyes meeting his eyes as she stood and tried to remain calm.

Upon Nyguyen’s word, or rather his verbal acknowledgement, Rin and Maiori stayed in the office. Frankly he was interested as to what someone from Iwagakure would come all the way to Konohagakure. Granted he’s largely been kept out of the loop in politics, but that was fine since his only use was to win their fights for them. Rin stood to the side as he noted the nervousness from the tensed posture and paused for an appropriate response. When her eyes stole a glance over to his direction, Rin presented a ghost of a smile momentarily.

Mitsu greeted Nyguyen appropriately, perhaps a bit too formally, but it wasn’t Rin’s place to say anything at that moment. As she straightened herself with a fortified confidence, Rin’s blood red eyes glanced over at Nyguyen to gauge his reaction. Unlike some, Rin reads not just the facial expression, but their body language as well. It wasn’t like Rin was being talked to, so the Fox Sage simply stood silently as he read into them. Even if one of them decided to get jumpy with a blade or weaving a jutsu, Rin wasn’t worried too much. Aside from the guards posted throughout the village, it would be foolish to try anything.

Rin felt a tug from the back of his shirt and he looked over his shoulder. It was Maiori who silently reminded him of his place. It was understandable, and Rin’s sense of logic ruled out that such terrible events would be unlikely to occur. However as his memory flashes over to Satomi and Alkaid’s corpse Rin’s experience led him to not believing someone wholly. Not normally at any rate, and in truth Rin didn’t trust anyone in this village.

Nyguyen watched as the timid but beautiful young woman entered into his office. He wasn't use to shinobi women being so meek so at first he assumed that this was all some kind of charade. He said nothing and watched as she bowed and introduced herself. He activated his Sharingan and detected no deception or hidden motives in any of her actions. The girl's body language was as genuine as her spirit. He looked at Rin and then back at Mitsukira. He was surprised that Iwa would send an emissary so subdued especially since Yui was running the village. Nyguyen sat back in his chair and replied:

"Speak your request Mitsukira of Iwagakure. I am a very busy man and while I appreciate your manners I cannot extend to you the elaborate courtesies that I might an ordinary visitor. "

That was Nyguyen's lengthy way of saying get to the point. An ironic demand for someone as verbose as he.

Mitsu couldn’t help but feel out of place in the Hokage’s office. Of course she was out of place, in that she wasn’t exactly supposed to be there. She hadn’t ever been to Konoha before and being allowed into the administrative building paired with Nyguyen’s stern demeanour gave her the distinct impression that she was doing something wrong. The man and woman who she did not know or recognize were silent and other than the quick smile from the man she had no indication of who they were or why they might be there. Mitsu assumed that if the man smiled he must be a nice person, hopefully nice enough to not just stab her if she said something she wasn’t supposed to. Her best guess is that these two were guards of some sort, or shinobi reporting in. Something vaguely official and military, otherwise why would they be in the Hokage’s office?

As Mitsu stood after bowing and greeting Nyguyen, she was alarmed as she saw the man’s eyes change. She had seen a similar thing not long before, different colour but close enough that the brilliant red hue with patterns of blacks caused her to tense and her scar on her stomach to ache as she mentally prepared herself to be injured once again. She knew better than to close her eyes, if she was going to be attacked she wanted to have some way to defend herself, even if that just meant being able to see the attack coming. It was only once Nyguyen spoke that she realized she had also been holding her breath and she released it as quietly as she could so as not to appear rude as though she were sighing.  

She was disappointed that her full name had been used, it told her the type of conversation she was about to have, and it wasn’t the pleasant kind. Turning her head slightly to look at the room’s other occupants, she would begin speaking unless Nyguyen stopped her. Since he hadn’t asked the man and woman to leave, she had to assume that he was comfortable with them hearing whatever message she had come with. Her only problem was that she hadn’t thought this far ahead, as to how exactly she was going to explain the issue. She didn’t want to lie, she wasn’t very good at it to begin with, but also if she did lie and he found out then she would have completely ruined any chance at peaceable relations with Konoha.

With a slight pause as she drew in a grounding breath she spoke as honestly as she could. “Thank you, and yes, Hokage-sama. I’ve come to request the immediate transfer of Rin Uchiha into my custody. To my understanding there was an arrangement made during the talks relating to the Farfour Accords that Rin would be allowed visitation with his wife, or uh, partner? Yui Kotoshura. I apologize for the lack of notice and also for not arranging this properly, but the situation is pressing and time of the utmost essence.” She would wait expectantly while keeping her gaze locked on Nyguyen, she had no time now to be afraid of him. Even though she most certainly was. She needed this to work, it was the only plan they had to help save Yui from herself. And Iwagakure from Yui.

The turn of events unfolded in a manner Rin should've guessed by now, yet somehow it slipped from him. Truthfully from what Rin understood was that he could visit Iwagakure only while under supervision. Which meant he had to get somebody to go with him, and yet everyone was too preoccupied with the war to uphold their promise to Yui Kotoshura. Still it probably was more surprising to Nyguyen given everyone's biased opinion no thanks to Akihiro about Yui Kotoshura.

"I suppose with the war going on, it'd probably be best if we make good on that. Yui is one person I wouldn't make an enemy of." And for good reason too as Nyguyen experienced first hand. She's a wild cannon that doesn't bow to anyone, and she certainly doesn't like when someone doesn't hold up their end of the bargain. Not to mention it would be problematic to deal with a second coming of Meijing City where Konohagakure barely came out of it successfully. If Rin was to keep these two nations at least on peaceful terms, then Nyguyen at least needs to swallow his pride. A task that's practically a feat on it's own, but Rin hoped that Nyguyen can do it. Otherwise Rin doesn't say anything else except to wait for the answers.

The young lady was nervous. This had the unintentional effect affect of making Nyguyen somewhat less stern. He relaxed his expression once it became obvious to him that Mitsukira's apprehension was no act but a geneuine reaction to meeting one of the most powerful men in the world. Maybe not in terms of raw skill but certainly in terms of influence. He normally had his guard on when interacting with kunoichi but Mitsu was not the headstrong type that he was used to. It was rather refreshing and Nyguyen found himself settling into his chair comfortably. He kept his Sharingan active just in case but where there was once only sternness on his face, there was now something approaching neutrality. Mitsukira's ask however was not as timid as her behavior. She wanted Rin to be released into her custody so that he may visit Iwa immediately. The Hokage blinked and the stern expression returned just as quickly as it had left. Mitsukira's understanding of the treaty was correct but he would have expected some notice before an in-person request. It was rather inconvenient for her to show up like this. Mitsu seemed to acknowledge the absurdity of the request but she stated it urgent. This piqued his curiosity. Rin cut in and said that it was best for them to comply but the Hokage raised a hand and asserted his authority over the situation.

"Now just a minute here Rin. Ambassador Mitsukira's understanding of the Farfour Accords is accurate but common courtesy dictates that advanced notice be given before he is permitted visitation. I was just about to have him complete a task for the village and now Iwa comes demanding his presence at once? I don't want to keep Rin from his family but I do think respect is called for in situations such as these."

Nyguyen peered into Mitsukira's eyes with his Sharingan and he spoke in a severe tone. He was emboldened by the fact that she was already intimidated by him so he figured all he needed to do was lay it on a bit thicker to get to the truth of the matter.

"I'd be willing to release Rin into your custody for his visitation but only if you tell me exactly why he is needed so urgently. Do not attempt to lie to me girl...these eyes see more than you will ever fathom"

For one brief shining moment Mitsu thought that the meeting was taking a turn for the better. Nyguyen’s demeanour had softened somewhat. ‘Soft’ was probably the wrong qualifier as it was about the difference between steel and iron. Sure, one was softer but they were both metal. As soon as she made her request his mood shifted back to steel. Her heart was pounding so fiercely in her chest she was sure that everyone in the room could hear it. If they could hear it, no one was mentioning it, so that was something. The scarred man spoke up and, most likely unwittingly, echoed her silent sentiments as to the urgency of her request. She wanted to look at him, but she didn’t dare as the Hokage held a hand up to stop the man from continuing to speak. And the next words out of Nyguyen’s mouth solidified the idea that she was woefully unprepared. ‘Rin? No, no that can’t be. That would make me an idiot.’

As Nyguyen continued it became clear that the Rin in the room was definitely the Rin she was looking for. And that she was an idiot. She knew if Chen were here now he would have that gloating smirk on his face as he watched her fail at something yet again. With Nyguyen staring her down and the room growing ever smaller, Mitsu clasped her hands together and squeezed her fingers tightly to try to stop them from shaking. She knew she should have sent notice ahead of time, well, she knew that now. In the moment there had been nothing but fear and panic and an urgent need to save Iwa. She was still probably the worst diplomat in the history of diplomacy, but she knew she had to try. She didn’t have any other options.

In response to Nyguyen’s severe tone, her voice unconsciously came out meek and soft. ‘Don’tcrydon’tcrydon’tcry’ Swallowing once, and then once more, she took a breath and told as much of the truth as she thought was relevant. She wouldn’t lie, but there were pieces of that day that had nothing to do with her request. “Uh, I-I’m sorry. I know I should have sent word, I didn’t mean to be disrespectful. It’s just, Y-yui is, there’s something wrong with her. She was fine, everything was fine until it just wasn’t. She changed somehow, her voice, her mannerisms, even her eyes. I’m a doctor but I don’t know how to fix that, and we thought that maybe. . .” She would turn slightly towards Rin to include him. “Maybe Rin would be able to help. She’s not well and frankly it’s frightening. It’s why I came as fast as I could, she said that as long as we didn’t make a move against her it would be fine, but if we did. . . And I’m sorry I didn’t recognize you Rin, again I don’t mean to be rude. Please forgive my lack of protocol and etiquette, and please don’t take my stupidity as a slight against Konoha.” Her words were as shaky as her body and the only thing that kept her from running out the door was the thought of everyone in Iwa that she needed to protect.

Rin held his tongue when Nyguyen raised his hand to usher silence. It was true that Nyguyen had just assigned Rin on a mission, so if anything Rin could make the visit after the mission concluded. After all, Rin asked to be put on the frontlines and Rin intended on making good on that decision. If anything, the girl seemed to be a bit timid, and perhaps easier to intimidate. An aspect that Nyguyen sought to take advantage of, and from the sharingan’s glare the diplomat seemed like she was ready to crack under the pressure.

Mitsukira began to explain her explanation with an apology for such a short notice, and then mentioned that something was wrong with Yui. It was for a moment, but Rin’s expression shifted into a grim kind. A reflection of something that might threaten Yui who happens to be his wife and mother of their child. Rin recovered his composure as he returned to being calm while listening to the rest of Mitsukira’s speech. When she turned towards him, her apology for not recognizing him actually made him chuckle with a small smile spreading on his lips.

”You’re doing fine Mitsukira. Thank you for bringing this news to us.” Rin kept his sentences short on purpose as it ultimately was Nyguyen’s decision. Frankly Rin wants to go just to check up on Yui and figure out what’s wrong with her. Granted he’s no doctor either, but if something is wrong that a doctor doesn’t know what to do then Rin felt compelled to at least investigate. Rin’s blood red eyes shifted over to Nyguyen, awaiting an answer from him. Maiori was also looking at Nyguyen for his answer as well.

Mitsukirra was shaking now. Nyg could see that it was difficult for the girl to admit what was wrong. This coupled with her earlier mistake caused her to tremble like a nervous wreck. She had not realized she was in the very same room with the person she sought and how she was being forced to explain what was wrong with the Tsuchikage. Mitsukira's description was intriguing but not entirely helpful. It sounded like Yui had somehow "changed" and that this change did not bode well to for the Iwa government. Nyguyen would have been amused if the stakes weren't so high. Konoha was in the middle of a major war and they had signed the Farfour Accords to turn Earth Province into a reliable ally. If Yui was expericing some kind of psycho-physical psychosis that could throw a wrench into his plans. He knew that at this point it was a good idea to release Rin into Mitsukira's custody but he couldn't do so just yet. Nyguyen leaned forward and mentally blocked out the creeping feelings of sympathy he felt in his spirit.

"I'm afraid that's not good enough Mitsukira of Iwagakure. Please be specific. What exactly is wrong with Yui? Has this change caused her to act erratically? Violently? Has she become a danger to herself? Her village? The alliance? I need you to calm down, focus, and give me details before I fulfill your request"

Nyguyen's tone had not lost its severity. He did not like pushing her but he had no choice. If Yui was compromised he needed to know how. Rin was taking the softer track which was fine but Rin was not Hokage of the Hidden Leaf.

Rin’s kind words gave Mitsu a brief reprieve from the panic that she felt rising in her and she would smile demurely at the man. If Rin wasn’t angry with her, then perhaps she hadn’t completely messed everything up. Again. The thought gave her enough hope to release the grip on her hands as she stopped shaking and breathed easier while she attempted to give Nyguyen more details. Mitsu didn’t think she was a very strong person, the tiniest glimpse of strength had come when she had wrongfully attacked Chen. She didn’t want to make that mistake again, confusing force with strength. What she still hadn’t realized was that she was strong, but that her strength was the quiet kind. Taking a moment to close her eyes and center herself, she would think of her husband and her friends, opening her eyes again with renewed resolve. She had stood her ground against others before Nyguyen; Argent during the war, Chen after it. Both had displayed violence and one actually committed it, and in both scenarios she had done a better job of maintaining her composure than she was doing right now. She still did not understand the lasting repercussions those events had had on her psyche, her rational mind though pushed her feelings of fear aside as she settled her pink gaze back on Nyguyen’s red one.

“Without warning Yui clutched at her head as though in pain and aspects of her physically changed. Her hair and eye colour became far from the blonde and blue I’m sure you are both familiar with. Her eyes turned golden and her hair looked as though it was crafted from spun gold. Her voice moments before had been warm and sweet and as soon as she introduced herself as ‘Id’ her tone was cruel and almost inhuman. To be perfectly clear; I am not trying to disguise details from you, I simply don’t have many to share. The change was sudden and brief. She, Id I mean, described being consumed by Yui in the womb. I assume that means that Yui believes she had a twin or something of that nature, since that is a fairly common though completely natural occurrence. She also asserted that Yui was cognizant of the change and could see and hear everything yet simply wasn’t in control. It was disturbing and I don’t know what to make of it, I was not able to assess her chakra signature at the time unfortunately so I am unsure if this is something Yui merely believes or if there was any validity to the other. The Id mentioned being able to force her way out of the barrier that Yui had placed on her in her mind. Whether Yui is a threat to the village or the alliance, I am unsure. I would assume not as long as no one attempts to ‘harm’ her, though I do not know what she may consider to be harm. And while she did not display violence, she certainly threatened it. Is Yui a danger to herself? I would say yes, though again, I don’t know exactly what is wrong.”

She would pause and give Rin a sympathetic look, her voice becoming softer as she continued. “She’s physically healthy as far as I could observe, but the truth is I don’t know her. Not like you do. None of us in Iwagakure do, that are still. . . I’m sorry to come with bad news and I pray to the Universe that I’m wrong or exaggerating the dangers. But we need Rin, whether it’s only in her mind or there is something else at work, Rin would know I believe.” Her attention would return to the Hokage, her eyes reflecting the guilt and sadness she felt at her plea. She was no longer shaking and she had managed to not cry, but her submissiveness in the face of the Hokage was plain to see.

As Mitsu spoke of Yui’s condition, the sound of it was worrisome, and yet it seemed that Yui developed a multiple personality disorder. Which perhaps was understandable given all that she endured in her captivity amongst the Society. The physical reminder that Nozomi and the rest of the Society were two different sides. It did remind Rin of when he used Kurama’s power longer than he could mentally withstand. That did change his personality to reflect upon the stress, and frankly with the mention of Yui’s appearance changing indicates that it was something different than a multiple personality disorder.

”Polar opposite in personality then? Not to mention the appearance changing…” Some speculations ran through his head as there were some outside forces that could affect the host in such a way. Jinchuriki would be the main cause, but from Rin’s understanding and knowledge Yui Kotoshura was indeed not a Jinchuriki. Unfortunately Rin’s knowledge of Iwagakure in terms of exclusives were limited as he honestly never went to Iwagakure before. Frankly there were many forces in the world that it can be difficult to keep track of them all.

”Has she acquired any sort of power recently? Perhaps even bargained another deal of sorts?" Rin had to ask as he wanted to rule it out. Although an idea occurred to him, and so Rin turned his gaze over to Nyguyen.

"If you do decide to send me, I'd still like to enlighten about the matter I mentioned before. By some chance, if you can assist me and even convince Kimiko to tag along. We can work together in wearing out even such a fearsome opponent. Even subduing him long enough as I do my part." His eyes of red shifted to the top corner of his vision as Rin came to another thought.

"Wielding powerful Ninjutsu would be a great start, and I'll finish up my final preparations before we officially begin."

Mitsukira was able to center herself and give Nyguyen the information he wanted. He was mildly impressed that she was able to pull it together despite the pressure of the moment. He found himself admiring the young woman. She clearly was an empathetic and nice person but she wasn't one to be totally overwhelmed by the duties placed upon her.

My dear Mitsukira if more shinobi were like you then perhaps the world would be safer place.

Mitsukira's explanation didn't add much but it wasn't because she was hiding something from him. It was because there simply wasn't much more to add. Yui had been taken over by some psychological entity that had its origins in the womb. The transformation overrode not just her personality but her physical appearance as well. This "Id" had its own agenda and was not afraid of using violence. Yui was already a reckless lass but this recent development created an escalating probability of catastrophe. Nyguyen stroked his beard as he listened and considered the situation. The man's Shairngan had analyzed Mitsukira's body language and he detected no deception on Mitsu's part. He wasn't as skilled as Satomi or Akihiro but he trusted his abilities. This ambassador was not lying. Rin was due to visit Iwa eventually anyways, they just wanted him there sooner rather than later and they had a very good reason for it.

Nyguyen turned to Rin at the same time Mitsu did. Yui and Rin were deeply in love and Nyguyen could relate. If his own wife was suffering from a similar psychosis, there wasn't a soul on Earth that could keep him from her side. This malady was of unknown nature but maybe Rin would be able to help her fight it. He appeared not to have any special knowledge on the subject but sometimes presence was enough. He steepled his hands as he considered what Mitsukira had said. As he thought, Rin joined the conversation. He asked if this could be the result of some newly acquired ability. Nyguyen had not considered this but it was a good question. He wasn't aware of any technique that fit that description but just as Konoha had its secrets, so did Iwa. It was possible she had picked up a new power source and in doing so had exposed her mind to severe trauma. Nyguyen then remembered that Yui had knowledge of the Eight Gates. During the Uchiha Clan Meeting, Rin had explained that Yui had used the gates in her fight against Kurama and its drawbacks had wrecked her health. As a fellow gates practitioner, he was well aware of their deleterious effects on one's physical health but mental? That'd be a new one.

Nyguyen returned Rin's gaze when the jinchurikki addressed him. It was clear from his facial expression that he was considering the matter heavily. Rin once more raised the question of fighting Kurama. The Hokage raised an eyebrow. Haven't we discussed this already? Rin was still pushing this fight against Kurama and his decision to do so while learning of Yui's condition was rather disturbing. If he didn't know them, he'd assume that this was some kind of trap, but he also knew Rin had a history of reckless decision-making. The kid might believe that securing the Bijuu's power was his best hope to protect Yui from the forces causing her illness. Nyguyen abruptly stood and turned to Mitsukira. He ignored Rin's question for now and looked at the girl. She had done a good job answering his question but she was still clearly intimidated by him. He had gotten the information he needed and so he decided to take a nicer tack. The Hokage's expression softened and a fatherly smile spread across his face.

"Its okay....thank you for being forthcoming with me. I know Iwa and Konoha have been at odds these past few years but the Farfour Accords have created a foundation from which we can learn to trust each other again. Your truthfulness will only reinforce that foundation. Please...take a seat. Can I get you something to drink? Coffee? Tea? Water?"

He didn't offer alcohol. It was unbecoming for a man of his age and stature to drink with a young woman that was not a kunoichi under his command. He'd walk around from his desk and escort Mitsu to a nearby seat where she'd be given a chance to relax and catch her breath. He then went to the front of his desk and leaned against it. Mitsukira would be able to see the full glory of his splendid Kage robes. The whites were freshly pressed, starched, and given a light touch of his favorite cologne (Oak Fire). It was all courtesy of his lovely maid Yui Uchiha. If she wanted anything to drink, he'd order his secretary to get it. Once she was settled and had her drink of choice then Nyguyen would respond to her:

"I will release Rin into your custody so that he may visit Iwa as previously agreed upon in the Accords. He can stay for as long as it takes for Yui to get better...or until we know exactly what's wrong with her. I do expect regular updates from him though and while it is not my intention to send him as a spy, I think Yui's mental health affects Konoha just as much as it does Iwa and I expect an open line to him."

Nyguyen had more to say and he hoped Mitsu would agreed to these terms. If she did, he'd then move on to Rin's request. He had thought about the situation and how Rin's ask would leave Konoha vulnerable. But his question had created an opportunity that he planned to exploit.

Mitsu didn’t know Yui very well. Or at all. Everything she knew of her personality had come from that one interaction with the woman in the throne room. So when Rin mentioned it was a polar opposite change in personality she couldn’t think to do anything but shake her head noncommittally. “I suppose so? She had been fairly kind and even tempered moments before. I’m sorry Rin, I actually don’t know much about her. Only that she is accomplished and powerful and with Masaru’s absence. . .” Mitsu looked visibly distressed as she mentioned Masaru and she would leave her thought unfinished, moving on as quickly as she could to his questions. She couldn’t imagine how Rin must be feeling, she had been beside herself when Masaru had first been returned from the war in a coma. If someone could have come to her and told her there was something she could do to stop his illness, she would have leaped at the chance. With a softer voice she answered Rin’s questions. “If she gained any powers I wouldn’t know. Although I suppose clearly she did. I don’t know what you mean by ‘bargained another deal’. The only bargaining I know of her doing recently, or at all, was the Farfour Accords.”

The rest of what Rin spoke of Mitsu did not understand. She heard a name, ‘Kimiko’ and mention of ‘a fearsome opponent’. But it was clearly not meant for her to understand and so she would politely turn her attention towards a nearby bookshelf, feigning interest in the volumes so as not to rudely eavesdrop on what must have been the conversation she had interrupted moments ago. She could see what looked to be books on history, and what was a polite distraction for herself turned into a look of genuine interest and she had to fight the urge to go and open them. She had wanted to learn more about Konoha, since the Land of Fire was so heavily intertwined with the Land of Earth and she thought that understanding the ‘whys’ of what had led to the war might help her better handle the repercussions of it going forward. She didn’t dare though, she was still concerned that anything she said or did in this office would result in her untimely demise, and rifling through the Hokage’s bookshelf didn’t seem like the thing to do that would keep her alive.

As the Hokage’s demeanour changed Mitsu felt simultaneously more relaxed and uneasy. It was an interesting dichotomy, and one that felt akin to waking from a restful sleep with the barest memory of a nightmare to haunt your day. She found herself instinctively smiling back, and was briefly reminded of the warm and validating smiles her own father had graced her with when she’d done something he was proud of her for. The uneasiness was a subconscious reaction and she took a step back as Nyguyen came around the front of the desk, silently chiding herself for being inexplicably skittish of someone that had not displayed any threat towards her. There was just something about the change that frightened her, and his proximity. She would nod as he spoke, there was wisdom in his words. She desperately wanted the wars and conflicts to end, and being able to speak with the Hokage she felt was part of that.

She allowed herself to be escorted to a seat, not wanting to cause a fuss, but it wasn’t until she was sitting and Nyguyen was leaning against the front of his desk that she breathed again. Once she did breathe she noticed a distinct scent of a woody cologne that she found quite pleasant. As near as she could tell the scent came from the freshly pressed white robes that the Hokage was wearing. Having what felt like a bubble of safety in the chair she finally smiled sincerely with a look of relief on her pale face. “Water, please. Thank you.” She would reply to his offer of a beverage. From her time spent in the deserts of the Land of Wind, water was the most kind and valuable thing that could be offered and her throat was quite dry from her anxiety. She would wait until the secretary returned with a glass of water for her, taking a few sips before turning her attention to Nyguyen again having let it wander silently to the books she saw. His terms seemed fair for the most part. She would nod as she let the glass of water rest gently on her knee in her hands. “Thank you. I will ensure that he is able to send updates on her health. Though I will be reviewing any messages he sends, while I believe you about not sending him as a spy, I would be foolish to not ensure that village secrets are not unwittingly being passed along.” In truth she wouldn’t even know what to look for, but Masaru was suspicious and she suspected that there was some validity to his suspicion and so it was worth looking.

Nyguyen not responding to Rin meant that the Hokage had no intention of wavering. Brushing aside Rin, Nyguyen extended what some might consider as excessive hospitality. Usually when a politician is trying to butter up someone to earn their support, or to extract information through aggressive hospitality.

---

”You’re wasting your time with these mortals.” A deep voice echoed throughout Rin’s mind that drew his consciousness from the real world into a world of what seemed to be vast darkness. The bioluminescence illuminated the vast space like a grove as there was a small pond of water that remained split in half by the towering wall of intertwined vines that bars the gigantic bijuu from Rin. In front of Rin was a chessboard that had pieces moved like they were in the middle of a game.

”That is becoming evident by the second. Frustrating as it is, we don’t have the time or the luxury to waste anymore time.” Rin responded to the bijuu as the young man sat down and moved his pawn to overtake Kurama’s rook. The bijuu used the water to form a tendril and it was used to move his knight to isolate the king from the others.

”There is your wife who would no doubt help if you just say the word. Perhaps even that Isobu Jinchuriki as she offered before.” The suggestion made Rin hesitate before the Tohsaka moved his queen to remove the knight, and that move brought a wolfish grin on Kurama’s face as the bijuu moved the queen to remove Rin’s queen. All the man could do was blink as Kurama had already isolated the king from carefully moving the rook, bishop, and even a pawn to secure the queen’s safety.

”Under normal circumstances, I would consider it. However, if I were to seek out Nozomi then my already damaged ties to Konohagakure would be severed altogether. Then if Nozomi caught wind of what I’m up to, she’d no doubt eliminate me as well. With the most recent news, asking Yui to help is like asking if she wants to go on a suicide mission given her state. Neither of these people are willing to help either as they would rather sit idly by twiddling their thumbs waiting for these Disciples to break down their gates.” Rin realized that he was growing incredibly frustrated with how things were going. All the while Kyuubi listened to the boy’s rant. A sigh escaped from Rin’s lips as with a wave of his hand, the chess pieces were reduced into thick fog before they reform into chess pieces for a brand new game to start.

”These are also the same ones that were willing to let you die at the hands of the enemy. As you said once before, self preservation is a natural and most powerful instinct mortalkind possesses. That being said, one thing has me curious.” Kurama lowered himself to look Rin in the eye as equal as possible.

”You lack that instinct, or rather you’re so calloused of your own life that you’re willing to throw yourself at the Disciples with or without any assistance. With little hesitation to boot.” As Rin grew silent, Kurama’s large eyes narrowed at the host before continuing.

”You don’t trust any of them, and from what I’ve witnessed thus far I can’t blame you. You and I, we are the same in our roles. We lack the time to wait, so what do you plan to do now that everyone else turned their backs on you again?” Rin took Kurama’s words into consideration before Rin made his first move by placing a knight in front of his pawn. Then Rin turned his seagreen eyes up to Kurama as he made his response.

”One of two ways, and both end the same. We’ll start our fight in the Land of Hot Springs, preferably after the capture of their village. This way if I lose, you’ll have plenty of room to retreat to safety. Or if we are sent to Land of Earth, we’ll stop by within one of the minor nations along the way and start our fight there. This way no matter where we are, destruction would be kept at the minimum and more or less guarantees your escape with little to no interruptions.” For a moment the bijuu’s eyes widened before he collected himself. Truthfully Rin was reckless, but they don’t have the luxury to sit idly by while others continue to gain a ludicrous amount of power.

”You intend to fight me by yourself?” This was answered with a nod from Rin, and Kurama considered it for a moment. Almost like Kurama’s own words regarding Rin’s lack of self preservation was very self destructive. It made the bijuu curious of what the boy would’ve ended up as if Kurama was sealed within the boy earlier? From what Kurama has seen and heard from the boy, the boy was already an outcast in the eyes of Uchiha. The boy was so distant of his clansmen that Rin barely considered them as family. For he held only respect for two people within the clan, Maiori and Satachi Uchiha.

”Very well then. Whatever comes to pass, fight like your depends on it. Fight, or I will kill everyone you love if you fail.”