I Fade Away [Gaara II]

Chapter 22

They were persistent for two months, the Council breathing down the Kazekage's neck. Over the fact that Azmaria was still out of commission. He was leaving himself open to attacks from opposing forces that wanted to take advantage of the fact that the Kages were still recovering from the war. Only last week had they been informed that the Mizukage was fully functioning behind the desk. And Sakura had made her weekly report on the Hokage's condition stating her still comatose situation was showing improvement. Kakashi Hatake continued to lead the Village. At least until the Council deemed him the new official leader if she didn't pull through. Meanwhile, the Tsuchikage was still unpredictable. The only thing they were sure of was the fact that he would never be able to be active on the field again.

"Rima is a perfect candidate for this position," Jouseki said.

Gaara was pulled from his thoughts, reminded of the men that sat around the table waiting for an answer.

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Tamahome ran through the halls of the hospital, not caring that he was breaking a few rules, but move carefully that no one became knocked over in the process. Coming up on the physical therapy rooms the young man threw open a door. The action startled the people inside.

"Tamahome, what's wrong?" Azmaria asked.

She was lying on one of the mats as the trainer stretched her legs.

"You need to get to the Kazekage Building," he stated. "Now."

Her brows pinched in confusion. "What? What do you mean?"

"Kankuro came by to inform us that the Council has pulled Gaara into a meeting. They're serious, Az, they want someone to take over your position. Today."

Her expression turned to one of irritation and anger. "What?"

"Exactly. I'm bringing you to the building now to state your case. How capable are you at holding your own?"

"I'll manage."

The therapist nodded in agreement, allowing the Medical Ninja to scoop up his partner and raced off into the streets.

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"Well then?" Gouza asked.

Gaara sighed more to himself, fingers lacing in front of his chin. There were a few files on the table that were appropriate choices in their eyes.

"I do not care for any of them," Gaara announced.

"Lord Kazekage, now is not the time to be... picky," Sajou said. "Your Soldier has been absent for months. I believe it is safe to say that this recovery process will be a long one. There is also no guarantee that she will be able to return. I see it as being highly unlikely. We need to think about the future."

Gaara's blood began to boil, eyes narrowing in warning.

"You may want to choose your next words carefully, Sajou," Ryusa warned. "Azmaria and Gaara have been partners, long before they became ninja. I understand his loyalty towards her. But if you continue to speak in that manner, I feel the Kazekage won't hesitate to silence your tongue."

The man gulped, and chose to glare at the leader.

"A temporary assignment," Ryusa tried to reason. "Just until the Soldier gets back on her feet."