Arc V Chapter 3

Arc V Chapter 3

V

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Arc V Chapter 3

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“...” Shikaku gazed at Asami from across his desk. Eventually, though, he relented, giving up his resistance. A heavy sigh escaped Konoha’s undisputed tactical and strategic adviser. “You know, Asami, I have rarely been bested like this before throughout all my career, but you did it. You win, Asami. You have got a point. We are going with your plan. Are you satisfied now?”

Asami grinned. Victory was hers. “I am, Shikaku-kun, I am. We will work out the details in the coming weeks. After all, this was just the rough draft.” When she said we, she meant him and Fumihiko. Her assistant lacked experience. Entrusting Fumihiko with all the administrative work would help him to polish his skills. He needed practice, and she wanted to reduce her workload.

Shikaku emrely waved off. “That's fine. I seriously need a drink after this meeting anyway, a strong one if possible. A seasoned bottle of Sake, probably.”

Asami sheathed her sword, ignoring his drinking habit. “Fumihiko, if you would be so kind, please unroll the next map.”

Her words freed Fumihiko from his stupor. “Which map?”

“You know, flattery won't get you far.” Shikaku folded his hands. His time was limited, and so was his patience. “So what do you want, Asami?”

Asami flashed a predatory grin. “You, Shikaku, have what I lack, you possess direct access to the village council and your words carries weight. Thus, I ask you to inform the council about a variety of worrying circumstances, circumstances that cannot be ignored any longer.”

“And that would be? Tell me, what's so important that I should report it directly to council?” Shikaku lent her an ea, listening. She talked sense before, so why not again? It was worth a shot. The only thing that annoyed him that was he completely unable to read her. He couldn't read her at all. Certain people were hard nuts to crack, difficult to read, but Asami was in a completely different league. Normally, it was he who was holding the cards, but not this time. Asami eluded him. World map? Village council? Cicusmtance? What was she trying to get at?

Asami motioned at the map. “What do you see, Shikaku?”

“I see a map.” Shikaku yawned, not much interested in her little games.

Asami nodded. “Indeed, it is a map. In short, nothing special. But everything in life is a matter of perspective. The map might be the same, but we don't see things differently. So, I ask you again, what do you see, Shikaku? Because there is danger looming on the horizon.” The girl repeated her innocent question.

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