The rain still fell over Amegakure, but with the dawn of a new day, fresh news reached the village that had long remained closed off.
"Seriously? We've actually allied with Konoha?"
Early that morning, a worldwide announcement issued by Konoha appeared on Amegakure's notice board. It displayed the alliance agreement Konan had signed the day before.
Apparently, Shikaku worked even faster than anyone had expected. In just one day, the signed announcement had already been sent to every country.
"It has Konoha's seal, along with the Angel's and the Fifth Hokage's signatures. Of course it's real! My goodness, our god and Angel really are incredible! With Konoha's recognition, Amegakure will surely never be plunged into war again!"
The people of Amegakure cheered with joy as they read the announcement on the notice board. They knew all too well what a great nation's promise meant.
"Thank you, Master Jiraiya."
Up in Amegakure's Tower, Konan felt a measure of relief as she watched the villagers rejoice.
Although Madara had shattered Konan and Nagato's dream of bringing peace to the entire shinobi world, he had at least preserved Amegakure as a haven for them.
"Don't thank me. Thank the Fifth Hokage. According to Shikaku, Konoha will also open its markets to Amegakure. Then the two villages can trade for what they need, and the people here will enjoy better lives."
After signing the alliance agreement, Shikaku had also offered Amegakure substantial benefits, opening trade between the long-isolated village and Konoha. This would both give Amegakure more sources of income and strengthen the ties between them.
Madara had not given instructions on those details, but he trusted Shikaku to think of them, and Shikaku had always done his job well.
After hearing Jiraiya's words, Konan felt rather overwhelmed by the favor they had been