The next day, Seiryu went to the Police Force to handle some work. As the time for the meeting approached, he took some gifts and headed for the Inuzuka clan.
The Inuzuka clan compound was fully prepared. Their unity was impressive. After the higher-ups decided to go all-in with the Uchiha, the whole clan was mobilized early in the morning.
At the gate, the ground was covered with yellow earth mats, and water was sprinkled on the road.
When Seiryu arrived, the clan head and three Jonin, along with the elder, were all waiting at the gate.
Seeing this, Seiryu understood the Inuzuka's attitude: they were tired of being marginalized and now wanted to step up.
As Seiryu arrived, Ago led the others forward.
Seiryu smiled. "Sorry for dropping by unannounced."
"Not at all. Your visit brings honor to our clan," Ago replied with a smile.
Seiryu shook hands with everyone. When it was Kaze's turn, he laughed, "Thanks for your hospitality during the last mission. Now that you're visiting us, let me return the favor!"
"Please, Seiryu."
Everyone led Seiryu to the reception hall. After they sat down, maids served tea.
Ago, seated at the head, asked, "To what do we owe the pleasure of your visit today?"
"It's like this: the Police Force recently recruited some new members. They're decent and train hard, but they don't have our clan's Sharingan. When it comes to catching criminals and searching for contraband, they struggle. Kaze mentioned before that your clan was considering selling trained ninja dogs to us, so the Police Force wants to order a batch."
"The Police Force is vital to peace and safety, and we're part of the village too. If there's a need, of course, we'll help. No need to talk about purchasing," Ago waved off. "Tomorrow, we'll pick the best adult ninja dogs and send them to the Police Force ourselves."
"That would be wonderful," Seiryu said with a smile. "And rest assured, once the dogs join us, they'll be given the official police dog status, with a stipend of 30,000 ryo per month, paid in food. We'll ensure that every bit of that goes straight to the dogs."
"30,000?" Retsu was stunned. In their clan, only the most elite dogs—those with one-on-one pacts—got that much. Even some Chunin and Special Jonin would want to be police dogs for that!
"Looks like you're a dog lover, Clan Head Seiryu," Hone laughed. "I was worried the dogs wouldn't be cared for, but now I see I needn't have worried."
"But does the Police Force have the people to care for these dogs?" Kaze asked. "Seiryu, looking after ninja dogs isn't like pampering pets."
"That's true. Most of my people could handle cats, but elite ninja dogs? Not so much," Seiryu said, turning to Ago. "Could you lend a hand?"
"What do you mean?" Ago feigned ignorance, though they'd already decided who to send. He was waiting for Seiryu to ask directly.
Seiryu understood. The Inuzuka had already shown plenty of sincerity in their welcome; with such a public gesture, the Hokage and others would already know. Since they were the first clan to openly side with the Uchiha, he'd happily do them this favor.
"Here's the plan: the Police Force wants to hire some trainers, vets, and ninja dog handlers from your clan. After all, only professionals can handle this properly, and I can't think of anyone more qualified. As for pay, trainers and vets will get the team leader rate: 180,000 ryo a month. Ninja dog handlers will be slotted into combat units: 180,000 for Chunin, 300,000 for Special Jonin."
Before Ago could respond, Kaze chimed in, "What about Jonin?"
Seiryu's offer was tempting—even Jonin rarely made 300,000 a month.
"Kaze!" Ago snapped.
"Haha, Kaze is as lively as ever," Seiryu smiled. "For Jonin, the base is 400,000 ryo, and with mission bonuses, you could easily make 600,000 a month. I have full confidence in your skills, Kaze."
"Ahem." Hone coughed. "Let's get down to business. The Inuzuka clan is willing to cooperate with the Police Force. The dogs will be delivered this afternoon, and the people will report for work tomorrow."
"No rush," Seiryu said. "The Inuzuka's willingness to support Konoha's security deserves recognition. As for what kind, you'll see when you deliver the dogs tomorrow."
"Then we'll be counting on you, Clan Head Seiryu," Ago said.
"Oh? Not at all, we're all working for Konoha, for the Will of Fire!" Seiryu laughed heartily.