At noon, the sun blazed overhead as the Third Kazekage led a group forward at a slow pace.
"Lord Kazekage, Konoha's camp is not far ahead," a ninja reported to the Third Kazekage.
"Mm." The Third Kazekage responded absentmindedly, occasionally discussing matters with Rasa, who walked behind him. "Rasa, although this is your first time taking part in negotiations, given your political instincts, how likely do you think Konoha is to accept our terms?"
"Teacher!" Rasa quickly stepped up beside the Third Kazekage and said confidently.
"Even if Konoha doesn't want to accept, they'll have to. The Third Hokage may be a hero of the ninja world, but there are even more people in Konoha who don't want to keep fighting. Unless they intend to drive us Sand Ninja into a corner, they have no choice but to agree to our terms."
"Good."
The Third Kazekage looked at his disciple with satisfaction. Though Rasa was not the successor he valued most, with Shūji's fate unknown, Rasa was undoubtedly his capable right-hand man. He gave Rasa a thoughtful look and mused inwardly, Perhaps I can try nurturing him.
However, after a moment of silence, the Third Kazekage could not help but let out a long sigh. "It will be difficult for Sunagakure to recover over the next few years."
"Teacher, I firmly believe that under your leadership, Sunagakure will soon recover. It may even become more prosperous than it was under the previous Kazekage!"
Hearing the helplessness in his teacher's voice, Rasa spoke without the slightest hesitation.
The Third Kazekage suddenly stopped walking and stared straight at Rasa. His eyes were filled with confidence.
"Mm." The Third Kazekage responded softly, a faintly gratified smile appearing on his face.
It was noon.
A group dressed as Sand Ninja slowly entered Yūsuke's field