Pakura braved the sandstorm as she pursued Sasori of the Red Sands.
Unfortunately, the Kazekage Puppet flew far too fast. And to keep Scorch Release: Extreme Steam Killing from harming himself, he continually formed Iron Sand Walls to block the shockwaves.
Those Iron Sand Walls became obstacles, preventing Pakura from advancing.
With bloodshot eyes, she returned to Byakuya and took several deep breaths to calm herself. "The higher-ups have accepted Konoha's goodwill and are willing to form an alliance with Konoha. Will you still come back to the village with me?"
Byakuya wanted to comfort her, but the words caught in his throat.
The Kazekage of Sunagakure had been assassinated by one of his own ninja, then cruelly turned into a puppet. For Pakura, who was fiercely loyal to her village, such desecration was like the sky falling down.
"When will the alliance treaty be signed?"
"The date hasn't been set. Konoha needs to send people with enough influence to negotiate."
Byakuya fell silent for a moment. "I understand."
Pakura stared at him with bloodshot eyes. "Do you really understand?"
"Yes."
"Are you sure you won't come back to Sunagakure with me?" She was asking so Yahiko and the others could hear.
"No. Sunagakure is bound to make a fuss over Sasori of the Red Sands assassinating the Kazekage. I don't want to get caught up in it."
Yahiko opened his mouth, then closed it.
Byakuya looked at the young leader of the Akatsuki. "The Akatsuki helped me, and I won't forget it. The Akatsuki will certainly receive my goodwill."
Konan hurried past Yahiko and Byakuya to stand before Pakura. "Hello, Senior Pakura. I'm Konan, from the Land of Rain. Konoha and Iwagakure have been fighting in our country for a long time, forcing countless civilians to flee their homes.