"Reasonable, given the circumstances," he concedes. "Is there anything else of immediate note?"

"That's everything."

"Has anyone else come back yet?"

"Some of the main forces have, though the wounded are still being moved, and some have stayed behind to guard them, including your sensei. You are dismissed; I want to see a detailed written report on those three's abilities on my desk within the week."

"Yes sir." They decamp from the office.

"That didn't go so badly. Thoughts?"

"It doesn't sound like they're going to ground us."

"There's a manpower shortage. We make ourselves useful to fill it, build connections, reputation, reliability. When the question of what next is asked, we're in a position to provide input, or talk to the people making the decision."

"Subtle."

"While it would be satisfying, drowning the village in sand is unlikely to be a long-term solution."

"You shouldn't joke about that."

"Well, as long as it is a joke..."

"Regardless. Kankurou, I assume you'll be returning to the Puppet Corps?"

"Yeah. There'll be lots to patch up, new puppets to make. They might even pry Granny Chiyo out."

Nod. "Tsubasa?"

"The... general forces, I suppose. Village security."

"Good."

"And you?"

"I will be- unavailable, for a day or two. There is a conversation I need to have."

"With Shukaku?"

"Yes."

"...Be careful."

"I intend to."

"Don't forget about the report."

"We have a week."

With the immediate business settled and the other two in position to keep an eye on developments, she feels confident in departing for a cave she knows a ways away. It's not hard to slip out, things being as they are. She blocks the cave's entrance and spreads down a cushion of sand to sit on, and focuses inwards, looking for the place where the beast lurks.

She's successful.

"You dare disturb my slumber?" a deep voice rumbles from behind her, sounding like sand scraping against stone.