Chapter 4 - Stare Down

Chapter 4 - Stare Down

Okay, so I promised myself that I wouldn't go too fast because eventually I will catch up to where I am writing and get stuck. Still, I can't seem to hold myself back. At least not right now.

Today's chapter is one of my favorites so far. It was an idea that I had after reading a chapter of Memoirs Of A Hokage. I think the idea so much that I stole it for myself. I remixed the story for a new situation (a bit fairly familiar to the one in the first story). It does occur at a different time and as you already know Kushina is the one who gave him the idea. Still, I love how this chapter came out and I bet you will too!

But before you get too carried away, do check out raidensokwl's story Memoirs Of A Hokage, s/10693508/4/Memoirs-Of-A-Hokage. It's worth a read!

Now on to the chapter:

THE WILL OF FIRE

Chapter 4 - Stare down

Minato was so grateful to his wife. She had given him an idea that might work. It was out of the ordinary, but if he did right then there be no war. He sent a message for the Kazekage via messenger bird then waited.

The scroll contained one of his seals. Nothing else was on it. When the scroll was delivered the Kazekage, Minato appeared as soon as he opened it. It caused quite a shock. Immediately, the guards surrounded him. Minato didn't move. He didn't speak. He was unarmed. Here was here to talk, not fight. Minato was willing to risk his life for the chance to avoid war. He hoped that the Kazekage felt the same way.

Minato's eyes never left the Kazekage's for an instant. He was patient as he waited for their panick to end. Finally, after a few tense minutes, the Kazekage sent his men out. When they were gone, he said, "I supposed you want to talk."

"I did." Minato paused and looked around the room. He lightened his tone as he noted, "There doesn't seem to be a chair around. You happen to have one, would you?"

The Kazekage stared at his counterpart incredulously. Not only did you barge your way in here, but you are making demands? You are truly unbelievable Minato Namikaze. He summoned an aide to fetch Minato to fetch a chair. The placed the chair near the Hokage and ran out as quickly as he could.

It was only when the Hokage had his chair, that Minato spoke again. "Thank you." He said lightly as if he just had requested a drink of water. Minato sat down then continued, "I know that this is a tad unorthodox but . . ."

The Kazekage cut Minato off. "Unorthodox? It is positively insulting!" Rage crept into his voice, "This is an act of war!"

Minato kept his calm. He had to. His family and his village depended on what he did this day. Any mistake and this would all be for nothing. They would be at war. Something Minato wanted to avoid at all costs. He just had to convince the Kazekage that war was not the better option.

It would be a tense and difficult negotiation. One that would last into the late hours. Which was a bit of a problem because Minato didn't really tell anyone of his plans. Sure, he ordered his calendar to be cleared and not to be disturbed but he didn't say what exactly he was doing. Certainly, this was a move would not be approved. It would be viewed as foolish. The Elders would be angry. Especially, if they found out that he had no guards or weapons.

Minato was going to get chewed out for this no matter what happens. Be it they avoid war or not. Of course, he would get a lot less flak if he was successful. He would be regarded as a hero. At least by the public that is. He'd still hear about it from the Elders, Danzo, and his wife. They would not be happy with the risk he took today.

There was only one would be only concerned about his wellbeing. It was that person who he felt bad about doing this to. Kushina would be worried sick by the time he returned. Which wasn't great for her or the baby. But it was a risk that he was had to take.

At the end of the day, Minato agreed to take less contracts from the Land of Wind. They would limit of contracts taken each year. Once the limit was reached they could not accept anymore contracts from the Land of Wind. No matter how big or small the request. Any client would be referred back to the Sand Village at that time.

Minato also agreed to sit out two Chunin exam cycles. The Village Hidden in the Leaves would abstain from hosting the exams twice when it's their turn. Instead, they would pass the opportunity on the Sand Village - giving them the prestige and the money from the event. It would help the Sand's strength and vitality and make war not such an attractive option.

In return, the Sand Village agreed not to go to war. They would renew their friendship with the Leaf. They would go on joint operations and support the Leaf when needed. For which the Leaf would return the favor should the Sand ever require it. If either should ever go to war, the other would be required to assist. Even if they lacked the resources to maintain a sustained conflict.

Finally, Minato recommended that they meet in a few months time to celebrate the renewed friendship. When asked as why not celebrate now, Minato cited his son's impending birth a major reason to put off. He admitted that the birth will be difficult and dangerous. It was a pressing matter that needed his undivided attention.

". . . I am sure that you understand. I hear that Lady Karura is due to give birth soon as well. I am sure that you will be busy as well." Minato offered his hand to the Kazekage. "I know that it late, but I wanted to offer my congratulations on another child. I hope that he is healthy and strong."

The Kazekage still didn't trust Minato very much; but peace had become suddenly a lot more attractive. So, he sucked up his pride and took Minato's hand. He would play nice, for now. But should the Leaf ever renege on any part of their bargain there would be war. The Kazekage would see to it himself. But for now, he would trust this strange Hokage, who dared barge in unannounced. But he would watch and see if the Leaf was serious or not.

He forced a smile and returned the Hokage's wishes, "And I hope that it goes well for you. Fatherhood is not an easy task. May you succeed Fourth Hokage. May your son be healthy and your wife well."

Minato nodded. "Thank you. I will make sure that Kushina hears your words." He paused then added, "And thank you for agreeing to meet with me. Not everyone would have done it under these circumstances. So, thank you."

The men released each other's hand. Minato politely backed away from the desk. He said his goodbyes then returned to his office. His meeting with the Kazekage may be over, but the next challenge would be greater. Getting the Leaf to agree to the terms of the peace treaty.

That's it for today. See this weekend!