Toonami & Konami's 30th Birthday Party Extravaganza

30 Years. 30 Fucking Years. 30 Years of drugs, scheming, sex, traveling and laboratory research. The Twins had lived 30 lifetimes in 30 years. Between the two of them, they had experienced more or less all there was to experience in the fantastical world of shinobi. They had been orphans, Kage, businesswomen, and drug dealers. Now it was time to enjoy those thirty years of life with a birthday party extravaganza the likes of which Kishin had never seen before.

Some might complain "Waitaminute, are you sure the Twins are actually 30 and not older?" Such bellyaching would be rewarded with Toon stuffing you in a trunk and throwing you into the sea. The Twins themselves are not sure of when they were born and they can never seem to agree on a stable date on which to celebrate. So they just kind of wing it. The sale of Baratheon's assets to the much larger Stag Emporium and the donation of the relevant proceeds to the Kereko Clan was cause for celebration in of itself, their return to the profession of ninja was another. And so, Konami agreed that it might be better to just kill three birds with one stone. Their 20th Birthday Party had been organized and celebrated with Konami's tastes in mind. It was an elegant affair requiring that Toonami stay sober for a week and wear a proper dress. It was a white glove service event and it was every bit as refined as the blonde twin would have liked. In exchange, Konami had promised her sister that their 30th would be celebrated just the way she liked it.

The "theme" of the party was rave/dancehall. The DJ was a renown trap and techno artist. Several other rappers would be performing and of course, there was all the drugs that one could want. If that wasn't bad enough, Toonami had invited a horde of strippers, escorts, and pornstars of every nationality and gender. There was to be foam, fireworks, food, and of course bottles and bottles of fireball whiskey (Toon's favorite). Konami had done most of the organizing. Toon had given the wishlist and Kon had executed it with the perfection of a Fortune 500 Project Manager. The guest list was long and filled with all sorts of infamous characters and personalities. The Kereko Clan was invited and they'd be showing up in full force. Konami decided that the best venue for such a party would be the Heavenly Emporium. It was a neutral ground and with security as tight as it was in the floating city, Konami could ensure there'd be no foul play. Bringing such unsavory characters under one roof with a never-ending flow of women, drugs, and alcohol was a recipe for violence. Fortunately, the Iron Prince's word was his bond. He'd take care of security and everyone knew better than to disrespect the peace of the Emporium.

Konami did plan on enjoying herself at this party. She had worked long and hard for the success that she shared with her sister, and for the first time in a long time, this would be a chance to kickback and relax. However, her spirit wouldn't allow her to let a perfectly planned party go to waste. The Twins' 30th Birthday Party was a fantastic opportunity to meet with the movers and shakers of the ninja world. Nations were at war and with the Twins getting back into the thick of things there were numerous deals to be made. Konami had used the planning of the extravaganza to meet with several individuals of note. She had used her shipping connections to smuggle in various goods and information. Naturally, she saved the best for last. Konami had invited Nozomi Himitsu to the party itself. Partially as a show of influence and power and partially because she had big business to discuss with the Himitsu.

After months of planning, the day of the party had finally arrived. Throngs of Kereko marched into the Heavenly Emporium and quickly made the place their home. Konami had rented out several floors of the hotel for the party. This would give the ravers ample space to enjoy the party and the company of others in private if necessary. The party had really gotten kicked off at around 11:00 PM and the meeting was supposed to start at 1:00 AM. Kon had tried to keep the meeting with Nozomi secret but as usual Toonami found out. She had relented in allowing Toonami to take part in the meeting so long as she promised not to tell any of the other Kereko. She also made her twin sister promise not to go upside the Jinchurikki's head. The Kereko were strong and Konami had invited Nozomi here because they were the closest thing to private body guards she could afford. Maybe they could take her all at once, but it wasn't a guarantee, and the risk was that she'd massacre them all. She would have ample reason to do so. Aside from the fact that they would almost certainly attack her first, Nozomi had experienced quite a bit of abuse if the things Makahshi told her were true. The woman seemed like the type to hold a grudge and thus Konami thought it best if the first Kereko she met was the most level-headed one.

Still, Nozomi had insulted her Clan by going rogue. Makahshi had been her Sensei and her actions as his student reflected poorly on his memory. He was a dear friend of Konami's. He was rather violent and prone to outbursts, but he possessed a keen intellect and self-assuredness that she found respectable. He had bought her the Red Steel Gauntlets she wore now and the two had shared many a conversation together. When he had been taken from them due to the plague, she was rather sad. It was a rare emotion for her. She was normally business-minded and cared little for sentiment. Yet somehow she found herself grieving his death. And so even the most straight-laced of the Kereko had a reason to dislike Nozomi. Fortunately, she was of clear enough mind to deal with the Missing Ninja without letting her petty feelings get in the way.

She couldn't trust Toonami to do the same.

She had moved the meeting to midnight. She didn't necessarily like leaving her sister out of such an important deal. As chaotic as the twin was, she could be useful in moments like these. But this was a very dangerous woman and the stakes of miscalculation were life and death. She had devised a decent enough distraction for her sister. It would also serve as something to look forward to when Toonami inevitably discovered her sister's betrayal. Konami had promised Toon that after the meeting she'd indulge for the first time in over 15 years.

"Molly!"
"One cigar!"
"Ah fuck come on! One Molly!"
"One cigar!"
"One Cigar and a cup of Moonshine!"
"A sip"
"A mouthful"
"Deal."

Toonami was rather excited at that prospect and Konami would have to inspect the substances to make sure her sister didn't lace it with something else. The agreement had left Konami feeling uncomfortable but this party was all about Toon and she'd be doing herself a disservice if she didn't let her hair down a bit. She had been the dominant twin and was thus was responsible for housing her younger sister. She had to keep her body in pristine condition and the habit led to her avoiding all manner of drugs including tobacco. She figured that once Toon had gotten wind that Konami had moved the meeting without telling her, she'd need to do more than just a cigar and a bit of moonshine. Konami resigned herself to her fate and figured a bit of substance once every ten years couldn't kill her.

Konami had arranged for Nozomi to use a secret elevator that would take her directly to the terrace above the party. It was an open air deck that had been reserved for when the party inevitably became too crowded. The terrace would be a new and exciting place for the partygoers to move to once the heat of the dancehall became unbearable. There were couches, grills, a massive pool filled with glitter, and stripper poles. For now though, the area was totally empty. There were a few deaf cooks off to the far side prepping some meat but other than that Konami and Nozomi would be totally alone.

The thrum of the party music could be heard directly beneath them. It was a fast paced trap beat filled with heavy drops and mesmerizing notes. Just the kind of music that Toonami liked. No doubt that girl would be turning up like mad beneath them. Konami sat on a white couch with an ankle propped on her knee. The blonde twin was 6'5 so even sitting down she had an intimidating presence. Her ultra-long twin braids were draped behind her, spilling over the back of the couch and touching the floor. She'd be wearing her standard clothes. This was Toon's party but she'd dress as she pleased. The former Mizukage was wearing a green leotard, combat boots, her gauntlets, and her signature military beret to top it all off. It wasn't much different from what she normally wore except for a small badge in her beret that read "Birthday Girl."

Konami would check her Rolex watch and wait for the guest-of-honor to arrive. She hoped to make progress relatively quickly. Twins shared a special mental connection and even if Toon was high on drugs, she'd probably sense something was up sooner rather than later.

The elevator lifted, taking up Nozomi to the meeting area. Nozomi was much happier being in a secluded terrace than she was being at the rest of the party. The girl wasn't what anyone could call a socialite, and while she had dressed up for the party, she wasn't wearing anything like what anyone else here would be. Normally, Nozomi wouldn't have even bothered responding to the invitation, but she knew the names of Toonami and Konami. Not only had they been former Mizukage's, but she they were Kereko.

Nozomi's life in Kirigakure hadn't been one that she spent a lot of time dwelling on, but she'd never liked the Kereko. Since she was assigned to Makahshi, she'd had a distaste for the man. It wasn't until her time in Iwagakure, at the Crimintern that the rest of the clan had gained her ire. A man had called her out, saying she'd disgraced their clan by leaving and that she would pay. This man was a Kereko, much like Makahshi, and so Nozomi knew that there was more to come from that in the future.

Even at a party, Nozomi like to dress practically for a combat situation if needed. She never used heels, preferring flats like she wore this time, and keeping her arms cleared of cloth so she could move her arms freely without ripping the fabric of her clothes. Dressed in a pretty white dress, tight around the body but a more free skirt section that went down to her knees, offering quite a high level of mobility, Nozomi was a mix of class and badass. She was a short and innocent looking girl, but everyone knew her face, and knew that her appearances meant nothing about her skills.

*Ding*

The elevator doors slid open, and Nozomi stepped out. She hadn't seen fit to bring a gift, partially because she didn't want to, and partially because she wouldn't have known what to bring anyhow. Besides, she wasn't here for the party. It wasn't her scene. The letter had mentioned some amount of business with her, and she wanted to get that squared away so she could move on with her life.

Heading towards Konami, Nozomi's steps were quiet but quick. As she got to Konami, Nozomi would bow her head and sit down on a nearby seat quietly, waiting for Konami to speak up. The girl was almost always quiet, and said very little unless she had something worth saying. It had been that way a large portion of her life, and even being the leader of the Society hadn't changed that much. If anything, it meant that when she did speak, people tended to listen to her, as she didn't speak unless she had something worth saying.

Konami heard the ding of the elevator and knew that her guest had arrived. Konami examined Nozomi as she approached. The Champion of the First Shinobi World Tournament was rather tiny in person. If you compared them side by side, it would be like a child and a fully grown adult. Luckily, Konami knew not to judge a book by its cover. Nozomi may be fun-sized but she packed quite the wallop. The Jinchurikki sat down across from her and waited to be addressed. Konami saw no gift in her hands which bothered her more than it should have. There was a moment of silence that passed between them. The only sound that could be heard was the occasional breeze and the sizzle of meat hitting the grille from the far side of the room.

"Its customary to bring a gift to someone's birthday party. I believe the invitation explicitly requested one."

Konami's words were provocative but her posture completely relaxed. There could be no violence here. Her read on Nozomi was of someone who wasn't easily spooked or brought to anger. But even if her read was wrong, she knew that the girl was smart enough not to breach the truce of the Heavenly Emporium. Konami tapped the badge on the center of her red beret.

"Not even a 'Happy Birthday?'"

"Requests are optional." Nozomi said softly, giving the barest of responses that she could. "And if you'd demanded, I would have shown up with nothing, or not at all. I'm not here for the party." She wasn't the type to deal with demands from anyone who she hadn't given power and authority over herself. The twins weren't above her, so she wouldn't have treated with any sort of demand from them. After a moment, Nozomi shifted uncomfortably though, words trapped on her lips before she finally spoke again. "Happy birthday."

She'd never said those words in that combination before, nor had they been spoken to her. Birthdays were never made out to be a big deal, as her life had been devoted to training, and she wasn't acknowledged much as a person. Things with Honiko were only marginally better in that regard, especially since Nozomi was sure Honiko would have viewed such a thing as trivial, an unnecessary distraction and a useless worldly tie.

The meeting was going pretty decently so far.

Nozomi's hands were placed in her lap, a stillness about her body that few could ever accomplish. Her mastery over the Sage arts had, at this point, given her the ability to sit perfectly still, without even the slightest movements. Even the breathing patterns were so shallow that they were imperceptible. Most people would find it uncanny. Were she grey, she could be mistaken for a statue. Every move she made was intentional. Nozomi let the nature energy around her move through her body. Of course, the Jinchuuriki had already topped off her supply of Nature Chakra and was a master of Sage Mode, but she still found it nice to meditate when given the opportunity.

Her eyes remained focused on Konami, waiting for her to either get to the point or to engage in more chit chat and small talk.

The Nuke-Nin refused to be cowed. She was every bit as defiant as the reports had made her seem. This was the same kunoichi that had endured Makahshi's training without openly rebelling. She bided her time until she was strong enough and once she had achieved a certain level of power, she refused to bend to the will of others. There'd be no gift-giving or jubilee, she was not that sort of gal. Konami nodded in sympathy. She wasn't really the party type either but this was a special occasion and she owed it to her sister to enjoy this particular bacchanal.  

Konami had expected Nozomi to leave it at that but then she saw the girl shift uncomfortably being wishing her a happy birthday.  The former Mizukage was rather surprised. Maybe this renown terrorist was not totally without sympathy or manners. She accepted the statement as it was. This was the most she was likely to get out of Nozomi, and if she pushed her luck the girl would just leave.

Konami was a patient woman but it unnerved her to see how still Nozomi sat. Makahshi had mentioned there was something rather creepy about his student but he chalked it up to that "edgelord Dōjinshi bullshit" that Academy students tended to read. There was a superstition among many genin that acting cold and quiet (like a certain shounen deuteragonist) somehow made you stronger. This didn't appear to be the case with the ninja before her. She really was just that impassive.

The blonde twin was getting rather tired of the foreplay so she moved on to the true purpose of their meeting.

"I wanted to discuss a bit of business with you Nozomi. You may or may not have realized but you've incurred a debt with the Kereko Clan. Now I know we Kereko are not the easiest shinobi to get along with...but we have our pride. Whatever you may have thought about Makahshi he genuinely wanted you to be strong. He had his own way of doing it but you were his student and he would have given his life for you. I'm not sure if you're aware or if you care but he died some time ago due to the plague. When you ran off to join Honiko and Raijin you left an indelible stain on his honor as a Sensei. You damaged his legacy in the eyes of Kirigakure. You shamed him, his Clan, and me as one of his closest friends. What will you do to make that right?"

Konami stared Nozomi in the eyes as she spoke. She was looking for signs of sympathy, empathy, mercy, regret. Anything that she could prey on to bring the kunoichi to her level. Konami could not force Nozomi to do anything she did not care to do but perhaps she could manipulate her.

"My leaving wasn't to slight Makahshi. I followed my teachings. Seek out the greatest power, and learn what I can from it. Honiko was that pinnacle of power to me. When I left Kirigakure on the trip, I was more or less on the level of Makahshi. Myself, Yomi, Kotsubo, Konoha's troops, Kumo's troops. Honiko fought them alone and was hardly pushed. She offered me a place at her side because of my status as a Jinchuuriki and the power I wield, so of course I accepted. And look at me now. I stand atop the world as a pinnacle of power myself, beholden to nobody."

Perhaps it was worse that she'd said that. In a way, it was her teachings through her father, through Kiri, and through Makahshi that she'd made the only right choice: to follow power and be the best weapon she could be. "If I'd have stayed, I'd have tried to kill him myself anyhow when I had the chance. Or on accident even, before I gained control of Isobu. I was sad to hear of his death, because it meant I couldn't settle things myself."

Nozomi matched Konami's stare. "I don't plan on doing anything, to answer your question. There was one of your clan at a criminal gathering who promised to find me, and drag me back to Kirigakure in a bodybag. I offer the same choice. Anyone is welcome to try, but I'll put down anyone who does. Otherwise, I made a choice to leave Kirigakure, and that was my choice and doesn't involve anyone else, personally."

There was a little bit of confusion in Nozomi's tone though. Had Konami really called her here to try and get something from her? Had she thought that Nozomi was going to give her some sort of compensation for leaving Makahshi's tutelage and abandoning the village? "Did you expect any other reply?" she had to ask, curiosity taking hold. Nozomi had traveled here, so she may as well make the most of the meeting and have a full discussion.

Nozomi proceeded to give an explanation for why she had left Kirigakure. It was logically sound and devoid of any emotion, just the way Konami liked to operate. She admired Nozomi's bluntness and in all honesty, she didn't exactly disagree with the girl's point. Unfortunately, she had her own family to consider.

Nozomi then admitted to wanting to kill Makahshi. She wasn't sad that he had died for any other reason than that she had been wanting the opportunity to do it herself. The man's abusive training had taken its toil on her patience and Konami could tell that this wasn't some boast or idle threat. The statement was delivered so matter-of-factly that Nozomi might as well have been telling her that she wanted to try a certain dish. It wasn't posturing, it was the truth. Konami did have a degree of attachment to her friend and to the clan as a whole, so while the girl's explanation made sense, it still irritated her.

She had taken them on as family and Konami did not abandon what little family she had so easily.

When Nozomi asked if she had expected a different answer, Konami scoffed and shook her head.

"No....no I didn't. But I was curious as to whether or not after all these years you felt any sense of obligation to him for the things he taught you. By the way you speak of him, it seems to be mostly the opposite. I apologize for Marvo's bluntness, like I said, we Kereko can be rather prideful"

When Nozomi had recounted how she had been threatened by a Kereko at a criminal gathering, Konami knew immediately who the gentleman was. Marvo Kereko was a notorious Missing Ninja from Kirigakure. He had carved out his own criminal fiefdom in the south-west of the shinobi world and he was not a man to be trifled with. The Kereko Clan had "excommunicated" him but it was all just for show. Marvo never liked the Hidden Village structure and he often romanticized the Era of Warring Clans. The Clan Elders realized that he'd be a fantastic asset to have within the Criminal Underworld and so they made a big show of throwing him out. In reality, he paid tribute to his familia, kept an eye out for threats (Nozomi), and tipped Kiri off when it suited his agenda.

Marvo was a fearsome ninja but if Nozomi was to be believed then he'd stand no chance against her. Konami wasn't exactly sure what "control" over a Bijuu entailed, but if it was what it sounded like then the girl did indeed exist in a separate plane from the rest of the Clan. However, Marvo was just one Kereko and they were Legion. There was no use in making this point though. Nozomi was the type to relish such a challenge. She'd need to try a different tack.

"You're a strong ninja and I'm sure you believe you have nothing to fear from me and mine. Maybe you do. Maybe you don't. But success isn't fueled by fear. The world is at War and allies are more valuable than you might appreciate. I invite you to my birthday party, I offer you the opportunity to heal old wounds and make some new friends. There have been just as many battles won at parties such as these as there have been on the battlefield. I don't care for suck-ups or flattery but before I work with someone like yourself" By that she meant an open and avowed criminal. "I'd like there to be as little friction as possible. The fact that you won't honor my dead cousin...that creates a lot of friction."

At this point, Konami figured Nozomi would be confused. Why should she care to work with the Twins? What could they have that she'd possibly want? Sensing this confusion, Konami would speak up.

"Oh and you're gonna want to work with us. I trust you've heard of Akeno Tatsuda?"

Hopefully this interesting segue into the true purpose of the meeting would force Nozomi to reconsider her earlier rudeness.

Marvo. It was nice to have a name to the face. Filing that away for the moment, Nozomi shook her head as Konami said she wanted to work with Nozomi, but couldn't with the lack of honor and friction Nozomi was giving Makahshi. It wasn't that she didn't honor him or anything like that, he was just a cog in the machine that had made Nozomi. She was already well on her path when she'd met him, and with or without him she would have chosen the same path. He wasn't a consequential influence in her life, and she'd already been through most of her village level training by the time she was assigned to his squad.

"Honor him? Creating friction? Konami, I don't think you know as much about the world as you may think you do. There are machinations in play that have been doing so for centuries. Makahshi was never supposed to succeed as my sensei. I was set up with him so that I'd choose to leave Kirigakure and join the Society. We've always been comprised of some of the world's most influential people. World leaders, influential scientists, powerful military assets. You'd be surprised at the reach the Society has."

"It's taken me some time to piece things together, but I've had a lot of time to think about it. The former Mizukage, Nikuyo had been ordered by his boss, a Society Leader, to implant the 3 tails into me when I was a girl, and focus on turning me into a weapon, training me from when I was a little girl until being assigned a squad at 16. I was chosen because my father was status and power hungry, and we were nobody. When I was assigned to Makahshi, it was a final show that Kirigakure and the world were the same. Everyone only cares about power. Makahshi, Nikuyo, my father, the Society. Power is the only thing that matters, no matter where you go. My sensei was the perfect person to instill and lock in the will to leave Kirigakure on my first foreign mission. I didn't need Kiri anymore."

Nozomi paused for a second, letting that sink in. "Nikuyo is a member of the Society. My first mission was against the leader of the Society, Honiko. She's the one who trained me. The task force to take her down was comprised of several different nation's powerful shinobi and they were nothing compared to her. It was meant as a show to me that the nations weren't powerful enough to fight the Society. I had to see the weakness of the villages first hand. Their best weren't ever enough. I was sent because I was never meant to be a weapon for Kirigakure. I was always meant to be a weapon for the Society, but at least I was among the pinnacle of power, and at least I had the respect of the world. If you want to blame anyone, blame Nikuyo. Blame his advisor. Don't blame me."

It was the name that really caught Nozomi's attention. Up until that point, she was simply talking to someone and it was unlikely to go anywhere. However, the answer to Nozomi's next question would likely seal the deal on whether or not Nozomi continued to talk with and work with Konami, or whether she left the party and had a new enemy. "Akeno Tatsuda. I'll ask this once. Were you responsible for her death?"

"Konami, I don't think you know as much about the world as you may think you do."

When Konami heard those words, she almost tuned the girl out completely. She had been a former Mizukage and party to many a international conspiracy. Nozomi had her fair share of experience but from what Kon could tell, the girl was no master strategist. However, what she said next shattered Konami's world-view. As Nozomi continued to speak, Konami grew more and more distressed. Ordinarily, she'd dismiss the story being weaved. It sounded so fantastical that she'd probably believe it to be a symptom of brainwashing. If she was Nozomi's handler she'd fill the jinchurikki's head with all manner of conspiracies and fairy tales to make her feel special. Yet too much of Nozomi's story fit her own experiences.

Not long after Nozomi had left the village, Konami and Makahshi had been approached with a scheme to remove Nikuyo from the Mizukage position. They'd use a next generation biological agent to try and infect the Yuki with an lethal version of the plague. As part of the plan, the Twins would become the Mizukage and catapult the Kereko Clan to a position of prestige within the village. However, like so many things in the ninja world, the plan didn't exactly pan out. Makahshi was the one who had died from the plague instead and not just a few months after Nikuyo was put in a coma, he recovered and slipped out of the village. Reports had placed him in the Kirigakure Pits overseeing the barbaric bloodsport. The turn of events was rather shocking and suspicious but she barely had time to mourn Makahshi, let alone chase down whatever shadows had played her like a fiddle. Nikuyo was free to operate independently of the village and her own position was tenuous at best. She wasn't a Kiri native, the Kereko were not a powerful nor founding Clan, the village was in dire straits, and her sister's rambunctiousness had increased tenfold. There had been no time for looking into that angle and to make matters worse, the village was soon attacked by none other than Shin Kazehana and his army of puppets.

Konami lurched forward and placed a hand underneath her chin. She was taking Nozomi quite seriously now. Every shinobi of note in Kirigakure was being manipulated and played with. The village elite had given Makahshi an emotionally unstable jinchuikki as a student knowing full well how the Kereko conducted themselves. Outside of Nozomi's family, he was probably one of the few people she interacted the most with. Once his purpose had been served, he was a loose end. After Nozomi had defected, he had been set up to die. There could be no investigation nor vengeance as to do so would expose the true circumstances of his death. He had died in disgrace, a failed sensei, never to speak of his interactions with the soon to be feared Nozomi Himitsu . In the ensuing chaos of the transition and Shin's attack, Nikuyo had gone AWOL and the village had not the resources nor wherewithal to vigorously pursue him. It had all been setup from day one. The reality ripped into Konami's soul like a knife and Nozomi would be able to see it within her eyes.

When Nozomi mentioned Nikuyo's adviser, the Twin's eyes flashed with anger. Hizashi! She knew the man well. He had helped set up the transition of power, yet after Konami had secured her position, he disappeared mysteriously. She hadn't thought much of it at the time but given all that she was now being told it made perfect sense. Hizashi was a Society operative and likely Nikuyo's handler. The man had been at the Mizukage's side constantly and when the old Bear had "retired" so had his advisor. He seemed so unassuming and unimportant. A career bureaucrat with no other ambition than to assist the Kage. Konami grit her teeth as she realized how deeply she had been manipulated. Nozomi was right, Makahshi's death was not her fault. It was the Society's.

Konami looked up at the blonde with hatred in her eyes. It was the first time since the meeting had begun that the woman sitting opposite her would be able to see menacing hostility. She didn't mind Nozomi telling her that she had always wanted to kill Makahshi. In fact, she had expected it. What she hadn't expected was for Nozomi to bring her whole world crashing down. Konami was a master strategist and she had played people to get what she wanted: Yanagi, Alkaid, Higure, Masuyo. She always stayed one step ahead of her opponents and now she was being told that she, her sister, and her best friend had been pawns in an even grander game. The same organization that had used her as a puppet was the same organization that Nozomi represented.

When Nozomi asked about Akeno, Konami remained silent as though she hadn't even heard the girl. She could tell by the tone that Akeno must have meant something to her. Konami had negotiated a peace treaty with her and Satomi (lot of good that ended up doing). She then witnessed Shin kidnap her. Some time later, they were fighting at the ruins of Iwagakure's gates. Either Akeno was already an secret asset for the Society or she had been brainwashed into becoming one. Ultimately, it didn't matter. According to Nozomi's speech, Akeno had been a true believer in the Society's cause up until the moment of her death. If Nozomi was willing to rob an entire village as revenge for Akeno then Konami could only guess what she'd do to the Twins if Konami said she had played any part in the woman's death.

She was responsible for it in a roundabout way. She had fought Akeno and lost. Akeno had asked her to deliver a message to the Hokage and Konami could only guess that that letter was somehow used to track Akeno down. It hadn't been her decision to kill the Iwa native but she had been involved.

She must really love this Akeno....the two might have grown close after she was kidnapped....I could play this to my advantage.

After a long moment of silence, Konami replied:

"No. No I was not. But I know who did it. Not just Konoha but the specific individual that gave the order and judging by this individual's disposition I'm willing to bet they did the dirty work themselves."

Konami had flirted with working for Konohagakure and as part of her initial mission, she had been asked to help put down the Iwagakure independence movement alongside Gin Akiyama. Unfortunately, Gin had been pulled off of the mission for reasons unknown to Konami. Earth Country was too valuable to give up without a fight and she guessed that the Konoha higher ups must have presumed her stronger than she was when they redeployed him elsewhere. Unfortunately, she had gotten her position through backstabbing and political intrigue rather than brute force. It was their loss and part of the reason why she knew after she had failed that she wouldn't be welcome in Konoha. They had bet a lot on her and it was all for nothing. Konami once saw them as a potential partner but now they were nothing to her and Toon. She had no reason to protect them. Instead, she'd use them to get the revenge she truly desired.

".......You want Akeno's killer....I want Nikuyo and Hizashi's heads. From the way you talk you don't seem to hold them in high regard or reverence. Nikuyo might give you some trouble but if what the media says about you is true, then I'm sure you'd relish the challenge. Hizashi on the other hand is a nobody, you can take him out easily."

This wasn't exactly what Konami had in mind when she had invited Nozomi, but the elder Twin was good at adapting to new developments. If Nozomi was too loyal to her organization to give up Nikuyo and Hizashi then perhaps Nozomi could do another favor for her.

Nozomi hesitated slightly. She held no love for Hizashi, but this talk was now bordering on treasonous to her organization. Nikuyo wasn't much of a threat to Nozomi, she knew he was a powerful individual, but Honiko didn't have any fear of him and Nozomi had grown greatly to that end. Fighting Nikuyo would be fun for her, in all honesty. She hadn't ever liked the man, and he had no love for her either. Nikuyo wasn't a kind person, and Honiko had told her to be careful around him because of his danger when she'd first come along. His loyalty to the Society was tenuous at best.

Hizashi was a different story. He was the true leader of the Society, at least under Honiko's rule. And the albino sage had said before that none of the others were even close to Hizashi's true power. Knowing that Menza was a Nature clan member of vast intelligence, and not weak either, that Nikuyo was a powerful kage in his own right, one of the most feared amongst them, and that Honiko herself was an immortal with dual Sage certification and vast reserves of chakra and power herself, if none of them matched Hizashi's power, then Konami was mistaken. Nozomi didn't doubt Honiko's appraisal of his power. If that was true, then Nozomi would be one of the likeliest contenders to fight him, and with Honiko's loyalty to him, she couldn't do that.

But then again, Nozomi had promised Honiko that Akeno's death would be investigated and that it wouldn't be left unpunished. It left her in a bit of a predicament, but Konami knew who did it. Nozomi hadn't been able to get that information, beyond a simple 'Konoha ordered it' from her own investigation. "Hizashi's more powerful than you'll ever know, and my master has nothing but the utmost loyalty to him. I couldn't move against him even if I wanted to without betraying her faith in me. And Nikuyo is under the umbrella of the Society. I can't weaken my organization."

Her brow furrowed slightly. "Still, you might be the only one who knows who did it that I'll meet..." Nozomi scowled, a look that didn't often come up on her face. She often held a poker face, but she didn't know much what to do here. Still, how many people would have been able to fight Akeno? She was a Jounin, and it had taken Shin to take her in. He was a Kage level opponent, and Akeno had grown stronger since their fight too. So it had to be a strong  opponent. Konami had suggested she knew the individual, which meant it was a single person, or a person with a squad strong enough anyhow, but if they liked to be hands on, then a squad wouldn't be super necessary.

If Konoha had done the deed, that narrowed it down quite a bit as well. Nozomi had suspected it when talking to Akihiro and Rin outside Kiri, but this was confirmation. Perhaps it was the Konoha nin she'd fought in the Blood Prison? No, he would have needed more than himself. Perhaps Akihiro? He'd known a lot about Akeno and had gone after Nozomi as well. He certainly had the power to do so. Rin would be a likely candidate, but he'd had other things on his plate and was doing some work for the Society. Besides, he didn't seem like he knew too much and now owed her a debt, so he'd have told her if he knew about it. There weren't many likely candidates that Nozomi knew of. Akihiro, a high level Jounin, or a Kage perhaps.

Then again, Nozomi had done some small research too, and Iwagakure had been assaulted by a Lava wielder at the same time as the Blood Prison, so it couldn't have been Akihiro or Gin that took it back. They were both at the Prison during the same time. Of the named people Nozomi knew, she remembered a name from the Tourney, not somebody she had fought, but someone Ryuko had fought. Masuyo Kaede, who had become the hokage shortly afterwards. A capable enough warrior, and a Kage candidate. Was she the strongest in Konoha at the time? She would have been in the position to give an order too.

Nozomi sat back, scowl gone as she had somewhere to start. "Frankly, Akeno's murder can be avenged much easier than getting to Nikuyo and Hizashi. I'd be helping you much more than you'd be helping me. Arguably, helping you is a detriment to myself. But you've proposed working together, so let's discuss."

Konami's hatred was much more visceral and noticeable than Nozomi's ever was. People who were angry could be good assets. They always had something to offer. Would be willing to do a lot, and to Nozomi, that was everything. What sort of assets could Konami and Toonami provide her, and would it be worth it?

Konami sensed Nozomi's hesitation. The girl hadn't exactly given a flattering portrayal of Hizashi and Nikuyo but she didn't seem keen on betraying them. Konami guessed that she was one of the strongest shinobi within the Society probably third to only Shin and Honiko. Nikuyo was powerful yes, but compared to her he was out of his depth. The man had peaked long before any of them had arrived on the ninja scene and from what she could tell, he was just a sad old man waiting to die. Even more pathetic was Hizashi. The man was a pitiful bureaucrat who could be killed by the Twins. Konami assumed that she wouldn't kill them because she was still loyal to them for one reason or another. With that in mind, most of her answer wasn't a surprise. Most of it.

You have got to be kidding me...


Hizashi had some hidden power it seemed. Konami shouldn't have been shocked, after all, if he hung around Nikuyo regularly he couldn't have been a civilian. All the same, she expected him to be just a discount version of the Second Mizukage. A retired ex-shinobi with a fair mediocre record. Strong enough to defend himself but ultimately way past his prime and unlike Nikuyo he didn't appear to have a killer instinct. If Honiko respected Hizashi then that only lent greater credence to the "Hizashi Hidden Power Theory." There was of course the generic reasons: Nozomi was in the Society as were Nikuyo and Hizashi. She couldn't in-fight with them on Konami's behalf. Just like her reference to Makahshi, Konami hadn't necessarily expected a "yes" but the reasons behind the "no" told her a lot about the young woman sitting in front of her.

Nozomi obviously held Honiko in high regard. This wasn't a secret per se but it further confirmed that the girl could not be bribed. The way she talked about Akeno reinforced this theory. The Society was like a "family" to her. She had her favorites and those whom she could do without, but ultimately, they were her people and she wouldn't harm them. The relationship between Akeno, Honiko, and Nozomi was beginning to sound like some wild tri-lesbian fanfiction. The passionate defense of Akeno and the way Nozomi talked about Honiko led Konami to the assumption that there was more to this than just "power." She tucked that theory away for the time being. Regardless of Nozomi's reasons, Nikuyo and Hizashi were off the table. Konami was not well positioned to attack them herself and if Nozomi would not help her then there was nothing she could do at the moment. She was grateful for the information that was provided though. It gave her something to focus her anger and energy on. She'd put that division of the Society in her crosshairs in due time, for now, she'd work with the rounin in front of her.

"Frankly, Akeno's murder can be avenged much easier than getting to Nikuyo and Hizashi. I'd be helping you much more than you'd be helping me. Arguably, helping you is a detriment to myself. But you've proposed working together, so let's discuss."
"Fair enough. The matter of Nikuyo and Hizashi aside...."

Konami leaned back into the couch. The stunning revelation had shaken her for a bit but she had garnered much intelligence. The ball was now back in her court.

"In your televised address you didn't hide the fact that you had plundered Konoha. I trust you have their exclusive techniques? If so, then I want a taste. Show me what you have and I'd like to pick one from the pile. Once that's done I'll tell you who killed Akeno"

This was what Konami had originally meant to ask Nozomi about. The revelation regarding Nikuyo and Hizashi, while shocking was a mere distraction. Konami had her guesses as to what Konoha had in play but once she saw them with her own eyes she'd be able to determine which best complimented their physical talents. If they were going to get back into the business of being shinobi they'd need a leg up on the competition.

Konami wasn't entirely unreasonable, and Nozomi nodded at her request. "Very well." Standing up, she gathered up her chakra, and without warning, a second Nozomi stepped out of the original.  Without a word, the twin of Nozomi left the room at haste, so as to not waste either of their time. The clone was purely perfect, tangible, and flesh and blood. It was as real as Nozomi herself, and had none of the limitations of a clone, minus the splitting of her chakra.

"I'm an honored guest of Okane's, I have my own room here. It shouldn't take long for me to fetch the scrolls and bring them back here." The original Nozomi said. Of course, Konami had only asked for Konoha's exclusives but Nozomi didn't mind doing her a favor and fetching the Iwagakure exclusive scrolls as well. There was a large diversity of abilities under Nozomi's control.

Taking a seat once again, Nozomi crossed her legs, waiting for herself to return. Not much of a conversationalist unless spoken to, they would likely sit in silence unless Konami herself said anything.

After a certain length of time, not long of course, the Fission version of Nozomi returned with the scrolls and set them down in a pile. "I've taken the liberty of bringing Iwagakure's as well. Take your time, make your choice."
-
-30 Fission
Stamina: 260/290
Nozomi: 130/145
Fissionzomi: 130/145

Spoiler:

Konami was a bit shocked at how readily the Nuke-Nin agreed to her request. She supposed it wasn't all that surprising thouogh given Nozomi's televised speech. The exclusives were not her own. She had stolen them. From a Major Power no less. If she wanted to see the hegemony of the Great Nations broken then it made sense to distribute their most secret techniques. The fact that it was Konoha who was most damaged by this deal probably incentivised Nozomi to cooperate.

Nozomi stood up and performed a sealless shadow clone technique. Konami was mildly impressed but because she did not know of the Fission Technique, she had no reason to believe that what she saw was all that special. Okane had apparently extended his personal hospitality to Nozomi. A wise decision. If he sought to bring peace to the neutral zone then ensuring the world's most wanted Nuke-Nin was onboard was a necessity. Konami patiently waited for the clone to return with the valuables. This let a rather awkward silence fill the space between former Mizukage and former Kiri-Nin.

"Would you like something to drink?"

If Nozomi said no then she'd nod and wait for the exclusives. If Nozomi said yes then she'd get up, go to one of the deaf cooks, and order them to bring her a drink of choice via sign language. In either event, she'd be sitting right as she was by the time the clone arrived. Nozomi stated that she had brought Iwagakure's as well and Konami looked at the fellow blonde with surprise. She raised an eyebrow waiting for the "but," "if," or "under Y condition" and when none came she became suspicious.

"You're letting me pick from Iwagakure's as well as Konoha's? No catch?"

If Nozomi indicated there was no additional strings then Konami would smile. She had been analyzing the Himitsu throughout the meeting. The Revolutionary appeared to be a lot of things but a liar and a cheat was not one of them.

Her loss....oh the things I could teach someone this powerful....

She placed a hand on her heart and pretended to be touched at the kid's generosity. It wasn't like her to be humorous at a meeting but the excitement of having her pick at the strongest jutsu in the world was making her giddy. And "giddy" for Konami was making fun of someone.

"Nozomi-chan...you shouldn't have. I'm beginning to think you do care about us Kereko after all." she spoke with a sly smile indicating that she was not actually serious. She wasn't sure if the girl had a sense of humor. If not, then she absolutely would not appreciate Toonami's antics. The hour was drawing to a close and she could tell by the vibrations through the ground that the party was getting heated. They'd need to wrap up soon before someone made their way to the rooftop. She had sealed it off with security guards but none of them were going to stop Toon and her entourage if she decided to come up for some air.

Konami turned to the task of reading each of the scrolls and evaluating their battle utility. She and Toonami were going back to their old ninja ways and that meant they'd need more firepower. All of the jutsu were as splendid as one would expect from a Great Nation. She memorized the mechanics of each. She wouldn't necessarily know how to perform them but she'd know how they worked if she encountered them on the battlefield. Three in particular intrigued her: the Gates, Fission, and the Mass Shadow Clone Jutsu. The Gates were by far the strongest. The Twins excelled at hand to hand combat and such an ability would give them an overwhelming advantage against standard opponents. However, because it was undoubtedly the strongest technique in Nozomi's possession it'd also make them a target. Konami was smart enough to recognize that one ability would not let them go toe to toe against the titans of the ninja world and if their knowledge of it was exposed, they'd be number one on Konoha's menu. She set that ability aside for now.

Fission was another option. She realized that what Nozomi had done earlier was not Shadow Clone Jutsu but rather this strange duplication technique. It was a "perfect" shadow clone if you will. This was a useful ability but in the hands of the Twins it could be a gamechanger. Konami fantasized about having the sister she always wanted. A perfect duplicate of herself that could travel side by side with her but also leave for the other end of the world if necessary. She'd have picked it right away if she didn't have to consider the corollary of that fantasy.

Two Toonami's....acting independent of one another and at full power.....No fucking way....

Of course, she'd have another Konami helping her but could she really subject a copy of herself to the same misery? Would it be ethical for her to force herself to take care of a Toonami doppelganger? Konami usually didn't consider the feelings of others but this was herself she was talking about. She shook her head and eyed the Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu. The technique had more battle utility than strategic utility. It'd pair nicely with the clone's abilities without creating long-term friction. It was the compromise pick. Toonami wouldn't be happy about it though. The blueberry would have gone for Fission and not because it'd given them a tactical leg up. She'd fight her duplicate. She'd fuck her duplicate. That was what Konami could think of just off the top of her head. She was sure the Toons would go even father. There'd be no limit to their depravity.

....MSC it is....

"It was Masuyo" Konami commented not forgetting her end of the deal. "Masuyo Kaede. I had the displeasure of meeting her more than once and I can tell you with 100% confidence that as Hokage, bringing Iwa to heel was one of her top priorities. Akeno was a threat to that and she gave the order for her termination. I'm fairly certain she did it herself but if not then Gin Akiyama might have been involved. He was her right hand man. If you find him I'm sure he can tell you more....but those are the people who are responsible for Akeno Tatsuda's death."

With the details spilled, Konami reached out for the Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu, but just as she did something unexpected happened.

*Ding*

The elevator doors opened and Konami's eyes were immediately drawn to the surprise guests.

Fuck.

Ken and Toonami had been partying for the last week to celebrate Toonami's thirtieth birthday, having done just about anything and done it just about anywhere they made their way back toward Toonami's home. They would hit the elevator button and begin to move up as Ken began to rip at her clothing attempting to remove it from her body. As they made it to the top he would quickly move and spin her into the doorway kissing her passionately before he would look up and notice Koonami was there as his eyes shifted he also saw another face he knew. If it wasn't the notorious Nozomi leader of the society and former Kiri shinobi. He would pull his lips from Toonami's mouth as he would smile at the pair, he wasn't expecting guests here where he was but alas here they were.

"Well, well Koonami and a guest, if it isn't miss Nozomi, former shinobi of Kiri and leader of the society. You likely know me and I bet you hate me but let me introduce myself The walking death Tetsudachi Ken."

This was not a meeting he expected and he certainly felt like she hated his guts, he was sure if this was anywhere else she would have a battle to the death with him. She was also a very strong woman with Ken simply grinning at her. He knew at this location she couldn't lay a finger on him, she was also in some sort of business deal with Koonami. He would smile and turn back to Toonami lifting her off her feet and placing her against the door they had just came through. He would continue to passionately kiss her before letting her go once more, this was far to fun.

"Yes please. Ginseng tea would be lovely." Nozomi replied to the offer of a drink. Nozomi didn't drink alcohol, since it impaired her senses, but tea was always something that revitalized her and kept her attentive and relaxed. When she had gotten her drink and the Fission clone returned, Nozomi's two halves remained apart so she could return the scrolls when Konami had gone through them. Konami was surprised by the addition of Iwagakure's exclusives, to which Nozomi replied with a simple shrug as she sipped the tea. "No catch."

Konami feigned a sense of giddy happiness, perhaps even tinged with some sincerity in the tone. Nozomi let out a bemused chuckle as the former Mizukage suggested that she even cared for the Kereko. "Of course not." The small reply came from Nozomi, but nothing further was said in reply. She watched as Konami looked through the scrolls, carefully considering each of the jutsu.

Before she chose, Konami said the name that Nozomi had already concluded, confirming her suspicions. Masuyo Kaede. The jinchuuriki nodded in reply. "I killed Gin at the Blood Prison anyhow. But Masuyo I'll have to tra-"

*DING*

Konami was mid grab, and Nozomi's head turned to the elevator, greeted by Toonami and a massive bulky man, someone well known to Nozomi Himitsu. A face that had avoided the public eye for many years at this point. Nozomi stood up instinctively, her body bursting into a light blue flame-like film of chakra. Nozomi's eyes changed, resembling the Rinnegan with the rings, but differing in color. A dark red covered the entirety of her eyes, including the black, with yellow Iris coloring. Ken Tetsudashi was a man that Nozomi had vowed to bring to justice for his crimes against the Land of Demons.

"Only man enough to show your face here. Where have you been hiding?" She hissed. The flame chakra dispersed almost as quickly as it had appeared, Nozomi knew that she couldn't fight here. Not without going against an ally she'd invested into. "Retribution will come for you. If you aren't a coward, you'll face me openly."

The fission clone of Nozomi had been watching Konami. "Why are you allies with this man? He's one of the biggest scum of humanity ever produced. We work with criminals when we have to, but there are limits to that."

Toonami had always been a loose woman. She rarely kept a boyfriend or girlfriend for longer than a few months. Higure Tatsuda-Kazehana was just the latest in a long list of casualties. Yet another girl corrupted and added to Toonami's ever expanding body-count. She fucked today and forgot tomorrow. That had been her modus operandi for as long as Konami had known her. Ken was proving to be the only exception. Toon had found herself falling for him hard. This was no bueno. Toon didn't fall in love. She had sex, she partied, and then she moved on. The only constant love in her life was Konami and she had been content with that arrangement. Ken had come into her life and opened up a whole new world for her. For Toonami this was both frightening and exhilarating. The result was predictable. Chaos. Drama. Drug Abuse. It was a never ending storm of lust and madness between those two. Toon had finally found someone who could match her intensity without getting exhausted or intimidated.

Unstoppable force meets an immovable object....

After leaving Kiri, the pair had met up in the Land of Sound and Konami was a hapless third wheel to the pair's constant misadventures. She had warned him not to get too attached. She had warned Toon not to be so open about her relationship with him. They had both given her the finger. She knew that Ken's crimes would make their lives difficult but forbidding Toonami from seeing him would only make things worse. She was resigned to whatever consequences came of their relationship. They were not going anywhere so the best she could do was damage control.

The elevators had barely shut behind them and the two were getting hot and heavy inside the lift. Toon was wearing her regular outfit with the addition of a cute tiara that said "Birthday Girl." She was freakishly tall but Ken was even taller. She looked up at him and pressed her body against his hulking frame as they made out. She giggled as he tore of her top, letting it fall to the ground and exposed her rather unimpressive bust. She grabbed his manhood and gave it a rough squeeze. It would have been extremely painful for any ordinary man but to Ken it was just minor foreplay.

"Oooh~ my birthday present"

She was about to unwrap the gift when the elevator doors opened. What she saw caused her to rub her eyes in confusion. She was looking at two Nozomis and one Konami. The fuck did Marvo give me?! She had swallowed an X pill or two before the party and she was just getting started. Konami had some important business they were supposed to attend to and so she had promised not to get too fucked up. Yet her eyes were telling her that this meeting was happening right here and now. Ken's reaction told her all she needed to know. This was no hallucination, she had been hoodwinked.

Until the two's arirval, Konami had been enjoying herself. She had gained valuable intelligence. She had struck a mutually beneficial deal with the great Nozomi Himitsu. She had even elicited a chuckle from the cold mannered woman. Nozomi's request for tea would be obliged of course and with much enthusiasm. Konami likewise preferred to be sober and healthy. A sharp mind and body was necessary for her position as the dominant twin. The interruption had cut her guest's words short and before she could react, Nozomi flew into a wrath.

The woman burst into a blue aura of chakra. It was an ability neither Twin had seen before. They didn't know what they were looking at but it wasn't good.

"What the fuck?!" Toonami exclaimed

Konami kept her mouth shut and stood as well. Nozomi was angry but she wasn't attacking. That was a start. The blonde calmly walked over and put herself between the the dysfunctional couple and the flaming lesbian. Toonami started forwards but before she could get far Ken picked her up and pinned against the doorway for another kiss. She struggled but he was too strong for her. Toonami, of course, loved when he tossed her around so her struggling was merely a token act. When the kiss broke, she forgot why she was angry. It took one look at Nozomi to make her remember. The Twin's magenta eyes were glowing with hate. It made for an eerie sight but it was nothing compared to the display Nozomi had put on. If she fought, she would not only break the truce, she'd be annihilated by whatever power the girl possessed. Any rational shinobi would know that a fight was futile.

Toonami was not rational.

"Fucking bitch! I'm gonna smack the shit out of you blondie!"

She lunged and Konami blocked her with her body. The two melded slightly as Konami used her position as the dominant twin to exert control over the situation. The collision would make for a bizarre sight. Toonami's grey arm would be stretching through Konami's stomach and reaching for Nozomi. If Ken helped then it'd make things easier but she had no faith in his sense of judgment. He was clearly amused by Nozomi's anger. Hopefully his compassion for Toon would win out over his desire to see a cat fight.

The fission clone asked her a pointed question and Konami placed a free arm into Toon's throat interfering with her ability to speak. If Toon kept provoking her then there was no telling what she'd do. They had been making progress and the last thing she wanted was to jeopardize a good business relationship.

"Allies is....a generous word. He's my sisters' boyfriend. I don't like him any more than you do. I tolerate him. I can't control who my sister loves and given our....unique relationship....." Konami gestured with her non-throat infused hand as if to say "this is what I mean when I say 'unique relationship'.".....I'm not in a position to just walk away from her. Its a give and take and in this case she took"

Toonami was struggling to speak and get out from under her sister's grasp. "Toonami stop!" she shouted as she tried to hold the gurgling drug fiend back.

Ken could only smile, the Little dragon was here and what interesting abilities she had, he felt a dark malice from her, was she a tailed beast he was unsure but she had some nasty chakra coming from her and it almost made him nauseous. She had become quite strong but she was wrong in her judgment he had not been hiding in fact he took over lands after the land of demons and she had no idea about this of course. When she called him scum Toonami would instantly try to go for her, he had let he go as her sister began to meld with her, as much as he wanted to see her punch Nozomi in the face he could not let her do that. Nozomi may very well kill her and even if Nozomi didn't like him she was working on a deal with Koonami and it was her birthday he could not let her day be ruined. He would move up toward Toonami and give her a gentle rub on her head, whenever she went wild and out of control, he would always do this to her, as he did he would attempt to place a gentle kiss on her lips as to say it was okay.

"Calm down Toonami let the world think what they will of me, I don't care about opinions, my methods may be frowned on but allowing nobility to abuse the people in such terrible ways was a far worse crime. I simply gave the land back to the commoners, they were set free and as far as I can tell are now thriving with elected officials and no longer being under the rule and thumb of noble scum. I feel if all the lands got rid of their daimyos the world would be better off, they do things on a whim and don't care about what the people want or need."

He would say this with a stern voice before shoving Toonami hard to push her into her sister, with his strength he knew she couldn't resist and they would become fused. It was best for the talks because he was sure Nozomi would be angered by his words, he had to change the world though. Even though he had failed to change the larger nation's minds, he had proved his strength to the minor nations and he had gained a huge amount of trust from minor nations realizing he wanted lands free of tyrannical nobility taking their money and resources and doing nothing to help their lands.

"You may disagree with my methods but tell me this how often does a major nation that controls a minor nation actually offer them anything. They take their resources, take their money, and for what literally nothing. They could care less if the people suffer and could care less if someone invades it unless they touch the resources themselves. They are a problem and if you cant see that the major nations only cause pain and suffering to lesser nations then you are blind to the suffering of the world"

Nozomi scowled at Toonami, but said nothing to her. It didn't help anyone to continue hostilities. Now simply wasn't the place for it. "You're lucky, all of you, that this meeting is here." Nozomi said. The second Nozomi grabbed the scrolls up, minus the Multi Shadow Clone jutsu, and headed for the elevator, to return them to her room. Unlike before though, she would not return, choosing to inform Iseri, Mako, and Isobu of the information Nozomi had purchased, as well as the knowledge that Ken was showing his face again.

"You destroyed the nation, hurt many innocent people in ways that are unforgivable. Then you handed them over on a silver platter to Kirigakure, who has since done little more than drain them dry, as you say yourself. Don't pretend to be self righteous. You solved nothing, but only added additional pain and suffering. You caused the very problem you say the major nations cause. You're no better. The Land of Demons was better off beforehand, and I'm the one stuck cleaning up your mess of a problem, because I'm strong enough to challenge the Major Nations and right the injustices of this world. You're little more than a common thug."

She sat back down and folded her hands back in her lap. "However, you are correct. The world would be better off without the Daimyou of each nation. And the Kage aren't particularly suited either. Each nation's been going through Kage faster than I can even keep track. Their leaderships are fickle, self serving hypocrites. Well... perhaps not all. Kumogakure's done very little to deserve my attention, but that won't last forever."

Even Ken's words wouldn't soothe Toonami's wrath. The younger twin tried to claw her way to Nozomi. The only thing stopping her was Konami's body and sooner or later she'd lose her footing and she'd be free to attack. It was because of Nozomi that Makahshi's name had become mud amongst the Jounin of Kirigakure. They blamed his abusive training philosophy for Nozomi's defection. It was just him either. The whole clan had come under fire and she was waltzing around like she owned the place. Toonami was much fonder of her adopted family than Konami was and so an attack on them was a direct attack on her. She would have broken through if Ken hadn't help push her directly into Konami. The act forced them to merge and Konami was able to suppress her sister's movement temporarily. She let out a sigh as Toon tried to push her way out but as long as she remained focused, Toon would eventually be sedated.

She wasn't paying attention to the conversation but if she had she'd be less than impressed. Konami wasn't moved by Ken's speech. What he did was extreme even by a revolutionary's standards. He was right in that the Major Nations took what they wanted from the Minor and left them as mere colonies but ultimately that was just the way the world worked. Overthrowing the nobles in such a brutal fashion wasn't the solution. Toon ate up his story like a bird flocking to bread crumbs. She liked bad boys and bad boys with a badass mission turned her on even more. It was nauseating to Konami but Toon was rather impressed by his complex motivations. Konami placed a hand on her stomach and another hand in the air.

Nozomi's retort was about what Konami expected. The woman had her own sense of justice that she'd mete out in due time. She was an outlaw but unlike Ken she was an outlaw with morals. Once she had gotten Toon under control, she'd give her two cents:

"Look....What's done is done...you two can kill each other on the frontlines for all I care but this is OUR birthday party and now that the business has concluded....let's try to keep things civil and fun if you please. I'm going to talk to my sister about what we agreed upon and I'll get her to behave."

Konami would stop the second Nozomi before she left with Fission.

"I changed my mind...I'll....we'll take Fission...."

Toon was going to be mighty pissed at the situation but this would smooth things over. It was risky and Konami would probably end up regretting it. Screw it....its her birthday... If permitted Konami would take Fission from the pile and store it on her person. The Twin would then shuffle off to the opposite end of the rooftop where she released her sister.

The two had a loud argument over the subject. They were on the other side but given Nozomi's perceptive capacity, she'd likely hear much of the argument. Most of it was deragtory epithets towards her, her Bijuu, and her family. Konami communicated to Toonami much of what Nozomi had told her. She gave a sanitized version of the events, omitting certain details and phrasing it in a way as to not provoke a more severe response. Eventually, the voices died down as Konami explained to Toonami would Fission could do and what it meant for them. A cackle of laughter could be heard from the end of the room as Toon realized what she could do with another self. The private conversation between the two siblings left Ken and Nozomi alone. Normally, this would be a recipe for disaster but Konami trusted Nozomi to do the right thing. She had not physically attacked him and Ken was likely smart enough to realize he stood no chance against her. It'd probably be awkward but as long as it wasn't violent, the show could go on.

After a few minutes of heated discussion, the twins emerged. Toonami stepped out of Konami's body as though she were walking through a door. She was "calmer." Calmer in the sense that she was no longer trying to bumrush Nozomi. But it was clear from her dilated pupils, grinding teeth, and twitchy eyes that she was wired as hell. She shot out her hand to the original Nozomi who was now sitting with her hands folded in her lap. The sight was fairly bizarre even for the Heavenly Emporium. Toonami was exceedingly tall, her blue braids swaying in the breeze, and she was totally topless. A black and purple nipple ring inserted into her left and right breast respectively.

"Fuck it! Its a party it ain't gotta be like that.....plus Kon told me all about how you iced Gin" Toonami hadn't been fond of the ANBU. He had said some choice words about her and ever since then she had wanted to castrate him.

Masuyo wanted to expressly state that Toonami's foolishness would not be tolerated. Any misbehavior would be dealt harshly, by me. I don't know Toonami personally, but it's clear Masuyo does. I hope she will be cooperative. That is all I had to relay. Let's get started.

"Fuck that guy" she said with a cheshire grin. "I'mma go get back to the party....I'll let em know your good people. So long as you don't talk shit about our boy we cool. Water under the bridge and all that bullshit. Also if you talk shit about my man again I'll fucking..." "Toonami...." "Yea yea yeah I got it....and thanks for the Fission and whatever and...just shake my fucking hand....."

Toonami's bare hand was inches away from Nozomi's face. The arm it was attached to ridden with tracks from years of intravenous drug abuse. Konami stood off to the side watching the interaction. Hopefully Nozomi would accept the peace offering. She also made eye contact with Ken. With any luck he hadn't riled her up while she was away. If he knew what was good for him he'd not antagonize the jinchurukki further. Konami wanted to preserve this business relationship and she didn't want to spoil her party. Speaking of which, they'd need to get back soon. People would undoubtedly start to wonder where the birthday girls were.

Ken sighed as Nozomi really did seem to hate his guts, she was quite a hypocrite considering the actions of the Society. Still, he would not ruin Konami and Toonamis birthday as he would offer his hand to Nozomi a sign of peace for now. This was not the time for the pair to fight, it was time for celebration.

"For now let us have peace no point in ruining these lovely lady's birthday, I know you want me dead but another day we can decide that fate. I want to make sure they both enjoy themselves and me dying would likely cause at least one other person to kill herself. If it was not for me she likely would have died to drug overdoses, I have helped her clean up a lot, so despite your hatred of me understand I can do good. As for you not hating Kumo, you should know they have forced me to do things by holding my daughter hostage, so remember some of my actions I don't have a choice if I want my daughter alive. Shimiko even sent me this letter saying if I didn't she would chop my daughter up and send me body parts, she wanted me to infiltrate the society and taker them out I have no interest in that, however."

He would pull several letters proving what he said about Shimiko is true handing them to her to read. He was sure this would make her want to take out Kumo as well as the other major nations and maybe just maybe get his daughter back to him not dead. Once Toonami came back out he would smile at her and see her behaving, Ken would simply move to her side and give her a light pat on the head, he liked to do this to make her happy.

-Exit Thread-

EXP: 25X3=75

The Fission clone eyed Konami as she stopped her, making a decision then and there. "Take them both. Multi Shadow Clone and Fission. One for the information, one on good faith. They both seem useful to your.... particular skills." When Konami took the scroll, the Second Nozomi would then continue on her way out.

Nozomi made no move to shake Ken's hand, although she was more or less inclined to not cause any further scene with him. It was his mention of Kumogakure that really snatched her attention though. Nozomi's head nodded momentarily in agreement as she gave it a moment of thought. Of course Shimiko was a problem, she hated Nozomi and would do anything to see her killed. There was no doubt in Nozomi's mind that Ken's daughter was in danger of a very real threat. "Then Kumogakure shall face its own justice soon enough. Your child has nothing to do with your sins. As for your death, that can wait for now, but it is only postponed. Tell me about your daughter."

It was the same as Chiheisen. Nozomi had freed the girl then, and now she had a new goal: Free Ken's daughter. It was filed away for the time being, although that didn't change the fact that she was going to kill Ken himself. Toonami approached, and the exchange passed, with her accepting that now wasn't really the time for petty arguments, and even enjoying that Nozomi had killed Gin. Nozomi couldn't have cared less about the man, his death meant nothing to her, but if it meant that they would move past whatever issues she had with her, then it was a useful death.

Taking a step back so that she could properly shake Toonami's hand, Nozomi looked over the track marks with vague interest. She didn't really know what they were. Perhaps battle wounds from multiple senbon. It was obvious she'd seen some combat and had suffered plenty of wounds, in that case. "I likely won't stay long. Parties aren't my area of expertise."

When Nozomi offered both scrolls, Konami's eyes lit up like a Christmas tree. She had been playing it cool for most of the meeting and she had only broken form when Nozomi had spilled the details about Hizashi's central role in the Society's skulduggery. Konami's reaction to Nozomi's offer was similar albeit instead of feeling anger and shame, she felt elation. The blonde was rather generous for one so unmoved by the chaos of the world. Konami accepted both scrolls and hoped that she wouldn't change her mind. She tucked them away in her possession and nodded. This was by far the best birthday gift they'd receive tonight.

"That they are Nozomi. That they are."

Nozomi accepted Toonami's handshake and Konami breathed a sigh of relief. She wasn't sure what Ken had said but he somehow managed to not provoke her further. She was at the very least willing to put to bed the animosity between herself and the Kereko. When Nozomi mentioned that she wouldn't stay long, Toonami gave an exaggerated frown.

"Ahhh cmon! What the fuck?! I was just starting to like you! You don't pop molly, pop models, shake your ass?!" Toonami said as she waltzed over to her boyfriend and grinded her backside against his groin. Konami quickly stepped in. Few had the patience for Toon's lewd antics and she guessed that Nozomi was not one of them.

"No. She doesn't." Konami answered for the girl. "You're cool with us but as you know our people are rather feisty. It will take time to talk them off your back and tonight isn't the night. You're welcome to join us but I wouldn't recommend it. She'll party with us another time, I'm sure"
"GAY!" the bisexual interjected
"I'll send a brew of my best tea to your room. Constellar Lilac. Thanks for meeting with us Nozomi
"LAME!"

Konami rolled her eyes and grabbed her twin by the braid and marched her to the elevator. Their presence was going to be missed and unless they got back soon their folks would turn the hotel upside down.

"Ken!" the two shouted as they motioned for them to join him. With their business concluded, the Twins and presumably Ken as well would head back to the party. If Nozomi joined them she'd be greeted by a night of endless alcohol, drugs, strippers eating consumables off of each other, dirty looks from some unsavory individuals Marvo being one of them, and hopefully a good time. However, assuming Nozomi retired back to her hotel room, Konami would have a box of the signature tea sent to her room. The tea would be delivered by a beautiful model dressed in rather revealing lingerie. The delivery would be heavily accentuated with verbal and physical innuendo implying that she was available for overnight companionship should the warrior require it. Judging by the way Nozomi carried herself and the way she spoke of Akeno and Honiko, Konami had made certain assumptions about Nozomi's proclivities. Whether she accepted one of the gifts, both of them, or neither would tell her a lot about who she was dealing with. Whatever the result, it'd be fair to say that the Twins had buried whatever animosity they held towards Nozomi that very night.

(Acquired Multi-Shadow Clone Jutsu and Fission)

Exit