"Among the remaining villages, Jiraiya and I share the same opinion. As long as their core interests aren't involved, Snow Shadow should remain neutral. That leaves Kumogakure. But I think the Two-Tails, along with some mutually beneficial concessions, should be enough to secure Fourth Raikage A's tacit approval. Even if he disagrees, it won't pose much of a problem for us."
The analysis was clear.
The judgment was sound.
Most importantly, he had clearly assessed the people involved and how their interests could be divided.
To put it simply, they could deal with each village separately. The five Tailed Beasts captured by Akatsuki were their most important bargaining chips. Shikaku believed it wasn't impossible to persuade the Five Great Shinobi Villages to agree.
The real difficulty lay in persuading Pain, the leader of Akatsuki.
To be honest, Shikaku didn't think their chances were very good.
But judging solely from the balance of risks and rewards, Shikaku thought it was worth trying. Besides, Konoha needed to speak up at the right moment to reinforce its standing in the international community. That was important, too.
It might seem like an empty gesture.
But in practical terms,
it was a special duty that a great shinobi village always had to fulfill.
"Shikaku, do you also think this would do more good than harm?"
Tsunade raised her eyes slightly toward Shikaku beside her. She still seemed somewhat unsure as she asked in a low voice.
"Yes, Lady Tsunade. I believe it's worth trying."
Shikaku's expression was grave.
"Mm, I understand."
After receiving such a clear answer from her trusted adviser,
Tsunade pondered briefly, then slowly nodded.
"So? You agree, Tsunade?"
Seeing Tsunade nod,
Jiraiya's face clearly brightened with delight.
Then—
"I agree, but not without conditions. Jiraiya, I still won't let you risk going