Listening to Nawaki's half-concerned, half-reproachful rambling, Pakura felt no resentment this time. Instead, a warmth rose in her heart. Being cared for was a novel experience for her. In everyone else's eyes, she had always been an omnipotent hero. Who would care whether she was hurt or bleeding?
Feeling the wounds on her legs heal rapidly, Pakura softened her tone and asked, "What exactly are you planning? How about I disappear and live under an assumed name from now on? That way, Sunagakure won't fall into civil strife, and they'll have no reason to go to war with Konoha. What do you think?"
"Not a chance!" Nawaki shook his head with an amused smile. "Why are you still so naive? The Kirigakure commander led a thousand Mist Ninja to their total annihilation. How could something like that possibly be covered up? And without seeing your body, would the Kazekage feel at ease? Even taking a step back, if Sunagakure continues cooperating with Kirigakure, can Konoha simply overlook such betrayal? Do you really think something like this can be decided by my personal wishes alone?"
Pakura was left speechless by Nawaki's questions. She realized that she truly did seem naive in front of this man, and said irritably, "Then what exactly is your plan? How can this be resolved peacefully?"
"A peaceful resolution is impossible! The Kazekage and the other two, the Mizukage, and you and me—we represent three different sides with different interests. It's impossible to satisfy everyone. If one side wants to achieve its goal, it must harm the interests of the other two." Nawaki cut off Pakura before she could speak. "Don't rush! Listen to me first!
"First, as for you joining Konoha, there's no need to worry about Sunagakure holding that against you afterward. Because they were