The Price [Letter]

One of the many subtle illusions in the world was the existence of true freedom. It was a dream that men willingly laid their lives down for, care thrown to the wind as their reckless behaviour buys another moment of mock freedom. Yet how could there be true freedom, when there was a price to pay? While Xyxer penned his letter for the hand-selected Hokage, the amusing notion ran through his head. The mock freedom that he had granted Konohagakure, while under the protection of the Mist, had still to be bought. He cared little for ryo, his vaults were already brimming. Secrets were useful, yet they had already been collected after Konohagakures unsuccessful defense. Loyalty was useful, yet it had to be proven by all and without a shadow of a doubt to linger. Blood. That was the price that Xyxer liked to collect. The price of blood was honest and given when truly needed, which made it valuable. Konohagakure would learn how much Xyxer valued the price in which they would earn their freedom.

"Greetings Hokage,

After witnessing your shinobi in the Chuunin Exams, I do hope admirable improvements have been made in your rankings.

Have your shinobi prepared within the coming days so it can be tested.

Lord Mizukage
Xyxer Tadashi"

The letter would be tied around the ankle of one of many ravens, before being released outside the storm wall. It would soon find its way to Konohagakure, performing its regular routine of swooping in through the window, circling once before landing on the table so the message can be read.

A few days after the first raven, another would find its way through the open window with another message attached.

"Greetings Hokage,

I trust you've gathered your shinobi and are ready to test their worth. Kirigakure offers you a chance in seizing Sunagakure from your oppressors in Kumogakure. As promised, we will serve as allies in this endeavor so that Konohagakures age-old ally can be redeemed. A token of good will.

Travel there immediately.

Lord Mizukage
Xyxer Tadashi"

Should the ravens be uninterrupted, they would soon return to Kirigakure.