Naruto: Seiryu's Aether

Kūga walked through the busy streets, heading towards the building near the Hokage Tower. The sky was a bit cloudy, making the day cooler than usual. As he walked, his eyes caught sight of a familiar group in the marketplace: Mito, Reifū, Izumi, Itsuko, and Katsumi. They strolled between the stands, chatting and examining goods as they went, each of them relaxed and cheerful.

Kūga's gaze softened as he watched Reifū, a quiet smile forming.

'She looks so happy,' he thought, feeling a rush of warmth. But not wanting to interrupt, he continued his walk, heading toward the entrance of the council building. The usual shinobi guards were absent, but with figures like Hashirama, Madara, Tobirama, and himself inside, he couldn't blame them.

"That place practically guards itself," he chuckled, his voice low as he made his way to the door.

Near the entrance, a few clan heads and council members filed into the building, each one focused and purpose-driven. Kūga walked at an easy pace, nodding back to those who greeted him.

His mind drifted as he continued, recalling the sword hidden with his Aether. 'It's been a while since I swung Infinite Severer…' he mused.

'Last time I really tested its strength was back near the Land of Iron. Maybe it's due for a little exercise.' He shook his head, brushing away the thought as he arrived inside.

The council hall was spacious, and although several people had already gathered, the seats designated for key figures were still empty. Scanning the room, he spotted Hashirama and Tobirama off to the side, deep in conversation.

Kūga approached them, nodding politely to those who greeted him along the way, and joined their small circle. They exchanged a few light words, speaking about village affairs and upcoming projects, though he sensed a subtle tension lingering in their tones.

After a few minutes, Madara entered, a heavy expression on his face as he strode toward them.

Kūga glanced around at the three of them, Hashirama's usually bright expression dulled by a slight furrow in his brow, Tobirama looking pensive, and Madara's usual intensity shaded with a weight he rarely showed in public.

Kūga chuckled softly, drawing their attention. The three of them turned, each one giving him a look that seemed to question his sudden laughter.

He simply shook his head, an amused smile playing at his lips. "Your three look like zombies," he said, the laughter still in his tone. "Did last night really get to you that much?"

They sighed almost in unison, each one letting out a breath of exasperation. Hashirama shot him a half-hearted glare. "Easy for you to say," he replied, his voice light with a trace of humor. "You're the one with that weird-ass ability. Doesn't even seem like you got affected."

Tobirama muttered under his breath, "Some of us still feel it…"

Madara gave a quiet chuckle, though his eyes still held that lingering heaviness. "Next time, we leave the Iron Kidney to you, Kūga."

Kūga just grinned, shaking his head. "You're all just sore you can't keep up. Now, let's get on with this meeting before I start falling asleep."

.

A few minutes passed before everyone settled in their designated seats, and the council meeting officially began.

Kūga found himself with his own specific seat this time—one with the same level of comfort as the Hokage's. He adjusted himself, silently nodding in approval at the plush cushions and supportive backrest.

At the front, Shikage Nara, the head of the Nara clan, cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention.

"Greetings, everyone," he began, his tone calm and composed. "Today, we have a series of topics to cover, approved by both the Shodaime and Nidaime Hokage." Hashirama and Tobirama nodded in acknowledgment, signaling their agreement.

Holding up a paper, Shikage continued, "These matters require our attention and resolution, as listed here: first, the Land of Iron's refusal to form an alliance with Konohagakure; second, reports of Amegakure shinobi attacking merchants and caravans on Konoha's route to the Land of Claw; third, Takigakure's request to ally with Konoha; and finally, the matter of Uzushiogakure's safety, given Kirigakure and Kumogakure's interest in the village."

He glanced around the room, letting each topic settle with the gathered leaders and clan heads. "As host, I'll begin by inviting Shodaime-sama to speak regarding the Land of Iron's decision."

Hashirama leaned forward, his tone gentle but clear. "The alliance proposal to the Land of Iron was simply an offer. Our goal was to create a buffer with the samurai forces, who would intercept or hinder Kumo shinobi movements if they ever attempted ambushes near the Land of Rice. Kūga's leadership at the battle camps in the Land of Hot Springs managed well enough, but the alliance would have reinforced our position."

A hand shot up from across the room, a member of the civilian council, his expression skeptical. "Hokage-sama," he began, his voice uncertain, "I just… can't grasp why they wouldn't ally with us."

Hashirama smiled patiently. "There's nothing wrong with their decision," he replied. "They are a free, neutral nation, and they've chosen to isolate themselves from shinobi conflicts to maintain that neutrality."

Tobirama, who had been silent up to that point, spoke up with a calm but firm voice. "The Shodaime-dono, Madara-dono, Izuna-dono, Kūga-dono, and I have all witnessed firsthand the Land of Iron's unique position in this world. Every major village respects their neutrality. There's no need to question it here."

The civilian council head, his brow furrowed, looked between Hashirama and Tobirama with a growing intensity. "B-But… they have an abundance of chakra metal ore deposits, we could have used it supply for war."

A slight tension fell over the room as Madara turned his cold gaze on the civilian council head, his eyes narrowing. "So that's what this is about," he stated icily.

"Greed. You want to exploit the Land of Iron's resources by using Konoha's influence to secure an alliance." The malice in Madara's stare made the council head shrink slightly, unable to respond.

From his comfortable seat, Kūga observed the scene, leaning back with a casual smile and hands behind his head. He let out a soft chuckle.

"Now, this is getting fun," he remarked. "Remind me of your name?"

The council head stammered, clearly intimidated. "A-Aoi… Aoi Akumine…"

Kūga's smile widened. "Akumine-dono, trying to deceive shinobi like the Hokage, or the head of the Uchiha clan with his Sharingan spinning... probably not the smartest move. Deception is part of our lives; please refrain from wasting everyone's time like this. We have serious matters to discuss."

Aoi Akumine fell silent, intimidated by the calm but pointed words from Kūga and the cold malice in Madara's stare.

Tobirama, sensing the point had been made, turned to Shikage Nara. "Nara-dono," he asked, "was it Akumine-dono, head of the civilian council, who insisted on placing this topic among today's issues?"

Shikage sighed and nodded, clearly disappointed. "Yes, Hokage-sama."

Several sighs sounded around the room as Tobirama gave a single nod of acknowledgment. "I assume we're finished with this topic, then. Let's move on."

Shikage nodded, shifting his gaze back to the paper. "Very well. Moving on to the second matter: Amegakure shinobi attacking Konoha's merchants and caravans on our route to the Land of Claw."

.

An hour passed, and at last, they reached the final and most critical topic of the day. Shikage Nara stood from his seat, letting out a weary sigh as he massaged the back of his neck.

"Now, for our last and most important issue," he began, glancing around the room, "we need to address the safety of our allied village, Uzushiogakure, from the threats of Kirigakure and Kumogakure."

His gaze landed on Hashirama, and he inclined his head. "Hokage-sama, may I ask, where is Uzumaki-dono? Given her position, I expected her to be present for this matter."

Hashirama let out a small, embarrassed cough. Tobirama quickly stepped in, "Uzumaki-dono is unavailable at the moment, likely attending to other matters in her village."

Across the room, the Akimichi clan head, a bit preoccupied with a snack in hand, paused to ask, "If I may… what matters could be more pressing than this?"

Kūga chuckled at Akimichi's comment, giving him an easygoing smile. "Does it really matter? She's not here, so let's keep moving."

Akimichi seemed to accept this, nodding in understanding as he resumed munching, while Tobirama cleared his throat to begin.

"We've received scout reports about Kumogakure and Kirigakure shinobi positioned at the Disputed Islands between the Land of Lightning and Uzushiogakure," Tobirama started, his voice carrying a note of urgency.

Shikage frowned, his hand instinctively tapping his chin. "Nidaime-sama, if I may ask—how were these scouts assigned? Our shinobi forces have been stretched thin, with so many missions following the war."

Tobirama glanced at Hashirama, who let out a quiet sigh but nodded in support. Tobirama then continued, "I've been forming an organization, still in its early stages, tasked with handling the village's darker matters under the Hokage's directive. Recruitment spans from genin to jonin, each handpicked and trained specifically for these tasks."

At this, the room fell into a stunned silence, eyes widening in surprise. Low conversations broke out, the murmur of voices filling the hall. Tobirama allowed the reaction, watching as each member processed the information.

Madara, listening intently, raised an eyebrow. He leaned forward slightly, his gaze sharp as he addressed Tobirama, silencing the room instantly. "So, what's the name of this… organization, Senju... dono?"

Kūga stifled a laugh, noticing the small strain it took for Madara to tack on the formal dono at the end. Tobirama, unconcerned, looked from Madara to the rest of the council, his voice calm but decisive.

"It will be known as the Ansatsu Senjutsu Tokushu Butai," he announced, "or ANBU for short. There will be no formal ranks within ANBU; hierarchy will be based solely on merit and experience."

Another wave of murmurs rippled through the room, and before anyone could ask, Tobirama continued, "Only the active Hokage can select members. No one will be permitted to join without an invitation, so please do not ask about eligibility."

Kūga nodded thoughtfully. 'So ANBU is finally coming into being,' he mused, making a mental note to offer Tobirama some advice to ensure the organization's longevity and minimize potential risks.

The council members whispered among themselves, casting glances at one another and then back to the Hokages.

After a moment, Hashirama's voice cut through the chatter, bringing everyone's focus back. "With this in mind, I'll be sending Kūga Seiryu to Kumogakure. Given the… lasting impression he's made on them, I expect it will keep them cautious."

Kūga grinned, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "With pleasure," he replied smoothly.

"I ought to thank them personally for the 'donation' they made last time." His words drew a chuckle from Madara and a hearty laugh from Hashirama.

Tobirama let out a light snort. "Madara-dono will be heading to Kirigakure," he continued, casting Madara a meaningful glance. "Hopefully, we'll be able to establish a diplomatic resolution. But if war is unavoidable, we'll face it with full force."

The room filled with nods of agreement, both civilian and shinobi council members firm in their resolve. War was a last resort, but if it came to that, they would defend their allies without hesitation. Hashirama gave a final nod, his expression resolute. "Konoha does not betray its allies."

After a moment, the conversation died down, and Kūga glanced around the room before casually raising his hand. "So… are we finished?"

All eyes turned to him, and Shikage Nara let out an exasperated sigh, though a small smile crept onto his face. Shaking his head, he replied, "Yes, Seiryu-dono. With that, the council meeting is finally over."

Kūga grinned, standing and stretching as the other members began to rise, the weight of the meeting lifting from their shoulders. 

.

As the council members filed out, Kūga, Hashirama, Tobirama, and Madara lingered, their relaxed conversation contrasting with the seriousness of the meeting that had just ended.

Tobirama looked over at Kūga, a thoughtful expression on his face. "So, Kūga, who do you plan to bring along to Kumo?"

Kūga shrugged casually. "Probably Reifū and Kenta," he replied, glancing at the others. "But I'm open to bringing anyone else who's interested."

They each nodded in acknowledgment, and Madara spoke up next. "I'll be taking Izuna with me to Kiri," he stated, crossing his arms. "I might add someone else, but I haven't decided yet."

Hashirama's expression brightened with an idea. "Madara, why don't you take Hiruzen along?"

Madara turned to him, raising an eyebrow. "That monkey brat? He couldn't even handle a drink. Are you sure?"

Tobirama gave Hashirama a doubtful look, "Hiruzen? With… Madara-dono?" He muttered the "dono" with exaggerated emphasis, a slight smirk playing on his lips.

Madara rolled his eyes, visibly irritated but resigned. "Fine, enough of that," he muttered, crossing his arms tighter.

Hashirama grinned, unbothered. "Come on, Madara. Hiruzen could learn a lot from you."

Kūga chuckled, joining in. "It's not a bad idea. He could benefit from your cold nature, Madara. Sometimes a bit of distance is necessary, though…" he added with a teasing grin, "you're more than just 'a bit' cold. Pretty much a perpetual winter to everyone around you."

Madara snorted, feigning indifference. "That's just how I am. Don't expect that to change."

Kūga raised an eyebrow, barely suppressing a laugh. "Not with everyone. You're not exactly frosty with Izumi."

Madara's eyes narrowed, and he crossed his arms tighter, though a faint blush crept onto his cheeks. Hashirama noticed and laughed heartily, clapping his friend on the back.

Tobirama shifted his attention to Kūga, clearing his throat. "I have a student I'd like you to bring along as well. He could learn from you, Kūga."

"Oh?" Kūga replied, looking intrigued. "Who's that?"

"Danzo Shimura," Tobirama replied simply. "He's still young but ambitious. I think he could benefit from your experience."

Kūga gave a small nod. "Alright. I'll be leaving in about three days, so let him know to meet me at the village gates early morning. He should be prepared."

Tobirama nodded in acknowledgment. With their plans finalized, the four made their way out of the now-empty council hall.

As they exited the building, they were met by the sound of familiar laughter. Just by the entrance, Mito, Izumi, Reifū, and Itsuko stood talking, clearly enjoying each other's company. They turned, spotting the men, and exchanged cheerful greetings.

Kūga walked over to Reifū, her face lighting up as he approached. "Hey there," he greeted her, his tone soft. "Did you have a good time?"

Reifū nodded, a warm smile crossing her face. "Yeah, I did. And you? How was the meeting?"

Kūga chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "Well, it was a meeting. But… I had a fun time watching the others bicker and argue," he admitted with a grin.

Reifū shook her head, bidding a quick goodbye to the others. She gave a polite nod to Hashirama, Tobirama, and Madara, who each nodded back in acknowledgment. Kūga gave a nod to them as well, then turned back to Reifū, and the two strolled down the street.

As they walked, Kūga turned to her, noticing the sky beginning to darken. "So… feel like grabbing a bite? It's getting close to dinnertime."

Reifū tilted her head with a smile. "What about Kenta? He'll need to eat too."

Kūga shrugged with a smirk. "He'll manage. He's got plenty of cash on him."

Reifū chuckled, shaking her head in mild amusement. "Alright, so where are we eating?"

"I know this place that serves incredible kebabs," he replied. "Trust me, you won't regret it."

With that, they made their way into the lively Konoha streets, Kūga leading the way toward a hidden gem of a kebab stand tucked away in the village.