- We have orders from the Kazekage, Itoku-san," the elder Anbushnik in the cat mask objected, bowing his head slightly.
- Kazekage's orders aren't worth a damn if you can't follow them," the dark-haired advisor said, jumping down from the roof and strolling toward us past the ninja who were giving way, "and that's exactly what's going on right now - I doubt that all these honorable people would accept such a reason to detain the Hero of Suna, especially after the recent accusation of betrayal against Rasa-san.
He was backed up by the rumbling of the crowd that had gathered and was gradually growing in numbers, as more and more curious people came from all directions, taking in the rooftops of the surrounding houses or joining those below.
- It's too much like an attempt to cover up your own guilt," the second counselor added, "so don't get on the kunai, Kot-san, this matter is being taken over by the Council and will only be decided after all the facts have been ascertained.
- I support this decision," the grandfather, who had appeared first, raised his hand and glared at the masked men.
The assembled Sunagakure residents and soldiers murmured in approval, casting suspicious glances at the Anbu sent by Kazekage, and some of the jonins even shifted to cover Pakura as if preparing to fend off an attack.
For a moment, I was envious of such popular support, but then I remembered my own popularity in Konoha and decided I didn't need more.
- I'm sorry to bother you, Itoku-san, Ketsu-san, Michayo-san," Pakura bowed to the advisors, "but I'm afraid the current situation requires your intervention.
- I never thought I'd live to see the day when the Kazekage would betray those he was supposed to protect," the old man shook his head, sighing heavily and giving the kunoichi a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
- Don't jump to conclusions, Katsu-dono," the swarthy elder shook his head, "even given Pakura-chan's reputation, this is too heavy an accusation against the new leader of Suna, and until we know all the details, including those of the esteemed Ryo Nara," he glanced in my direction, "we should avoid such categorical statements.
- As usual, you want to get to the bottom of things first, huh, Itoku-kun? - The elderly counselor chuckled. - I think the mere possession of three Kiri no Shinobigatana Shichinin Shuu swords is proof enough.
- I also have the bodies of most of the ambushed Kiri-nin, if you'd like to see them for yourself," I hastened to add my five ryo.
- Thank you, Nara-san, that would be very helpful," the swarthy councilman nodded at me, "but before the whole village gathers here, let's go to the council chamber while Anbu notifies all the elders of the urgent meeting," Itoku turned his head toward the Anbushniki who still hadn't moved.
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