"However, I don't think Konoha Village's people had any need to deceive us. The effects of this medicine would become clear after a simple test," Kinnara continued. "Since he gave us time to use it, he clearly isn't afraid of us verifying it."
The Third Kazekage remained silent. Yet his previously upright posture suddenly collapsed, and he seemed to have been drained of all vitality, as though he had aged more than a decade in an instant.
"Konoha, Konoha... Heh. It seems our defeat was well deserved."
Sarutobi Toru stayed in Sunagakure for three days. Three days later, he returned to the Kazekage's Office and met with the Third Kazekage once more.
The Third Kazekage's eyes were bloodshot, with heavy dark circles beneath them. Even his spiky hair looked more disheveled than before. Clearly, he had not rested properly during this time.
"Lord Kazekage, what have you decided regarding the treaty?" Sarutobi Toru asked solemnly as he sat in his chair.
"Konoha has won. Sunagakure will comply with the conditions listed above." The Third Kazekage's gaze was somewhat unfocused, and there was no emotion to be heard in his voice.
"Lord Kazekage is truly wise and just. Then I shall return to Konoha and report this good news." Sarutobi Toru smiled faintly and nodded.
"Which Kage-level expert is willing to serve as a peace envoy to Konoha?"
The Third Kazekage lowered his head without speaking. Pakura, who had been sitting beside the table, rose to her feet. Her face was expressionless. "I will."
Though she appeared impassive, Pakura's hands were clenched tightly. The Third Kazekage and the others thought it was because she felt humiliated and furious. They did not know that she was merely excited.
Pakura had proposed going to Konoha herself during the discussion held by the Third