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"Honestly, I even think the Sage of Six Paths himself might not be able to withstand it."
"Otherwise, the future wouldn't have turned out like this."
"I can't see any farther ahead. Even my prophetic dream ability is completely gone."
A deep chill crept through his heart, and he dared not think any further.
"So what are you going to do, old man? Stop stringing little Jiraiya along?"
"Are you going to tell him the truth? Maybe even go to Konoha to apologize and admit defeat?"
Shima asked, her eyes full of hope.
If that really was the plan, it would be wonderful.
That way, Mount Myoboku wouldn't end up falling out with Konoha and getting wiped out in one fell swoop.
Who would choose death when they could live?
These old creatures who had lived for centuries or millennia were shrewder than the last.
They treasured their lives.
"Yes."
This time, Gamamaru nodded, his tone firm. "Bring little Jiraiya here at once. I need to explain everything to him properly."
"After that, I'll have to trouble you two to visit Konoha in person, explain the situation to its current leaders, and offer an apology."
"While you're there, hand over Mount Myoboku's Summoning Contract Scroll and let them choose whoever they like to sign it."
"Consider it compensation."
"Also, tell them I promise not to reveal any of this, or the truth about what's happened in the Ninja World over the past few decades, to the Sage of Six Paths."
He wasn't sure who that unpredictable factor was, nor whether they currently understood the significance of those words.
But none of that mattered. Making his position clear was the most important thing.
Even if he had to humble himself and pay a price, he would do it.
It was