After several months of planning, the removal of Nikuyo was set in motion. Konami, Makahshi, and their mysterious ally had worked to poison the Mizukage with a subtle chemical and biological agent. The result was a mimicry of the plague which often resulted in coma followed by death. Nikuyo was none the wiser to the plan or those who carried it out. When he finally succumbed he was removed from office and placed in the hospital where he received less than stellar treatment. It was a miracle that the old bear was still even alive but absent a drastic change, his condition is slowly worsening. The plan went off successfully but not without causality. Not long after the planned operation, Makahshi himself came down with a genuine bout of the plague. The clan was furious but Konami had ensured them that if there was anyone that could keep him alive and potentially help him fight it off it would be their mystery associate. And so, Makahshi's body was given to their secret operative. He has not been seen nor heard since.
Nikuyo's advisor Hizashi had proven surprisingly helpful with respect to the Kereko Clan's ambitions. He had taken Konami under his wing and schooled her in the art of Land of Water politics. He brokered a deal between the Kereko (represented by Konami) and the other major clans. Even though she was a foreigner, she had managed to secure the support of Hizashi and several other major commercial entities. The influence and power of the Kereko Clan could no longer be denied and hence it was decided that they'd be given a seat at the council. Shi would represent the clan on the council while Konami was permitted to act as interim Kage provided she keep Hizashi as an adviser to ensure fidelity to the Land of Water.
Nikuyo's advisor Hizashi had proven surprisingly helpful with respect to the Kereko Clan's ambitions. He had taken Konami under his wing and schooled her in the art of Land of Water politics. He brokered a deal between the Kereko (represented by Konami) and the other major clans. Even though she was a foreigner, she had managed to secure the support of Hizashi and several other major commercial entities. The influence and power of the Kereko Clan could no longer be denied and hence it was decided that they'd be given a seat at the council. Shi would represent the clan on the council while Konami was permitted to act as interim Kage provided she keep Hizashi as an adviser to ensure fidelity to the Land of Water.
