[quote=ruronihs]
If things don't add up, I can adjust the backstory, but I was assuming that the empire held the power, if not public support. So, I was under the impression that any promotions would have to go through the Empire, especially since they can control which missions are allowed to be issued.
[/quote]

Empire can hold power but that doesn't mean the village itself backs them. Konoha and Kiri didn't give support whatsoever, much less than them is Kumo. Going out for an hour or two.