"The Elder Council?" Tsunade asked, fixing her gaze on Hiruzen Sarutobi.
Hiruzen Sarutobi gave a wry smile and nodded.
Understanding dawned on Tsunade's face.
As her side grew stronger, it was bound to threaten the Elder Council's interests eventually.
Even if it didn't, the Elder Council would take precautions.
Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu weren't as extreme as Danzo had been, but they had long since grown corrupt.
"To think Danzo is dead, and they still haven't shown any restraint." Disdain flashed across Tsunade's face.
"Kushina, what do you think?" Uchiha Yin asked her...
"What do I think..." Kushina felt conflicted. She had meant to say outright that she didn't want it, but seeing how much everyone else wanted the Nine-Tails had made her a little curious.
Kushina had never liked being a Jinchūriki, but when everyone else clamored to become one, it piqued her interest.
It was only curiosity, though.
"Kushina, you don't have to be afraid. If you want to become the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki, no one can stop you. And if you don't, no one can force you."
Uchiha Yin took Kushina's hand. His voice carried not only conviction but a touch of pride.
"That's right. If you don't want to do it, don't. If you do, then do it. No one can force you. I'll handle the pressure from every side, including the Elder Council!" Tsunade declared boldly.
Mikoto took Kushina's other hand. "Kushina, I'll support you too!"
Konan folded a paper crane and gently placed it in Kushina's hand.
"Big Sister Kushina, I'm on your side too." Konan smiled and made a cheering gesture.
"Thanks, everyone. But I don't want to be some Jinchūriki! Who'd want some unknown monster living inside them? Not me."
Touched by everyone's concern, Kushina's eyes grew a little red. Then she