Konoha.
Hokage Building conference room.
"Lord Chiba."
Rasa walked to a spot five steps behind Chiba and bowed deeply.
He addressed him as "Lord" willingly.
"Lord Kazekage."
"Why didn't you leave with the Raikage and the others?"
Chiba turned around and looked at Rasa.
His tone was utterly calm, devoid of any emotion.
"You jest, Lord Chiba."
"You should know very well what little wealth Sunagakure possesses."
"The Raikage is hardheaded, and Ōnoki is stubborn."
"I, Rasa, haven't lived long enough. I don't want to drag my entire village down with them."
"Sunagakure is willing to submit to Konoha unconditionally!"
"From this day forth, there will be no more Kazekage in the Ninja World—only Konoha's Sunagakure Branch!"
Rasa gave a bitter laugh.
He suddenly raised his head and met Chiba's gaze.
Rasa spoke those words with resounding conviction.
Because he was a thorough pragmatist.
If he could not win, then he would join them.
As long as the people of his village could have enough to eat, that was enough.
"Rasa, you're a smart man."
"And a qualified village leader."
"But what do you want?"
Chiba smiled and walked behind his desk to sit down.
There had to be something he wanted from surrendering voluntarily.
If Rasa wanted nothing at all, Chiba would not dare trust him.
"Lord Chiba."
"Sunagakure can relinquish all control over the Land of Wind."
"I have only one request."
"After unification."
"Sunagakure's ninja and civilians must receive exactly the same treatment as Konoha's citizens!"
"There must be no discrimination in material supplies, mission rewards, or even medical resources!"
Rasa stared fixedly at Chiba.
This was his bottom line.
If Konoha merely intended to exploit Sunagakure as slaves.
Then he would rather be killed by Chiba right now than bow his head.
The room fell into