Hmph!
Chiyo ignored Yin Jie and let out a heavy, cold snort.
Then, she gave Yahiko a slight nod as well, acknowledging what he had just said and agreeing to begin formal negotiations.
Even so, she still thought little of Yahiko and the Akatsuki organization under his leadership.
As far as Hidden Sand Village was concerned, Akatsuki's mission had ended the moment it agreed to act as an intermediary.
As for what role Akatsuki could play in the negotiations, Chiyo, who was fully in charge of these talks, did not actually care.
To put it bluntly, in Hidden Sand Village's eyes, Akatsuki was merely a messenger that allowed them to retain a final shred of dignity on the surface. The real negotiations would still be conducted by Chiyo, Orochimaru, and Yin Jie. There was no need for Akatsuki to meddle further.
After all, although Akatsuki had gradually made a name for itself in the Land of Rain and the surrounding smaller countries, at its core, it was still nothing more than a mercenary organization that could not stand on the grand stage.
And Chiyo, a highly respected elder advisor of Hidden Sand Village whose word was final and who could speak to the daimyo of the Land of Wind as an equal, did not even regard the daimyos of ordinary small countries highly. Why would she care about a mere obscure organization like Akatsuki?
"Then, Lady Chiyo, tell us what terms Hidden Sand Village can offer!"
Orochimaru, who had not spoken a word since the two sides met, opened his mouth for the first time.
"Hidden Sand Village's demands are actually very simple..."
Chiyo composed herself, a crafty glint flickering in her eyes.
Clearly, what she was about to say would not be pleasant to hear.
"The cause of