Transaction

Using the future to trade for immediate benefits was not exactly a deal with easy terms.

For Mizuki, being willing to promise one in exchange was already more than fair to Chiyo. If he had truly been unscrupulous, he could have simply agreed to it.

After the Fourth Shinobi World War, troublesome matters like tailed beasts would most likely be left unresolved in the end. Mizuki did not need to meddle in them.

Chiyo's worries were really unfounded, but Mizuki could hardly convince her with things that had not yet happened. Since Chiyo now cared only about Gaara's and Sunagakure's interests, he could only have her offer something more reliable in exchange.

"Let's make this clear first!"

Seeing that Chiyo seemed about to name her terms, Mizuki spoke first.

"This is something I'm doing privately. It has nothing to do with Konoha, and I don't have the authority to offer much. I can only use my own name as collateral!"

Even if Mizuki became Hokage, he would not use the village's interests to trade for personal gain. Public and private matters had to remain distinct.

"Do not worry. This old woman's condition certainly will not make things difficult for you."

Chiyo grinned without the slightest concern for her image before continuing.

"I want a secret cultivation method for stabilizing one's own spirit. I assume Jonin Mizuki understands what I mean. This should be your personal secret technique and unrelated to Konoha, so it can serve as a condition for exchange, correct?"

"I seem to be getting the worse end of this deal."

Mizuki hesitated somewhat. Any secret technique capable of benefiting the spirit was an invaluable art, something that could support a great shinobi clan once its principles were mastered—a family treasure whose benefits could be enjoyed by generations to