"Mei Terumi?" Jiraiya asked, sounding somewhat puzzled.
Shikaku Nara said, "Burūi secured Sunagakure's vote, then Konoha's. If Mei Terumi still wants to compete, she has to persuade us to change our vote. But three votes are already locked in. Coming here won't do her any good."
"She'll definitely come."
Tsunade said, "Mei Terumi won't give up until she sees the result herself and confirms there's no room left."
Shikaku glanced at the clock on the wall.
"Six fifty. The meeting resumes at seven tonight. If Mei Terumi is coming, it'll be within these ten minutes."
Jiraiya sat up. "Then let's wait for her."
It was six fifty-eight when Mei Terumi arrived.
She, too, had come alone.
Shikaku welcomed her into the office.
"Lord Hokage." Mei Terumi inclined her head slightly.
"Lady Mizukage." Jiraiya returned the greeting.
"The Five Kage Summit is about to resume. Coming here at this hour..."
"I came to see you about tonight's vote, Lord Hokage."
Mei Terumi's voice was calm. "Kirigakure needs Konoha's support."
Clearly, she knew Burūi had already been there, but she still refused to give up.
"I can lay out the terms Kirigakure can offer right here."
"Trade routes between the Land of Water and the Land of Fire... missions... intelligence... funds..."
Mei Terumi quickly outlined the greatest price Kirigakure could afford to pay.
"Lord Hokage, Kirigakure's losses in the war were heavier than anyone imagined."
"So these resources are everything we can offer."
Jiraiya fell silent for a few seconds.
Then he said, "Lady Mizukage, you're too late."
"This afternoon, Kumogakure secured Sunagakure's vote."
"And just now, I also promised Konoha's vote to Lord Raikage."
Mei Terumi visibly deflated.
She closed her eyes in disappointment.
But only for a moment before opening them again.
"I understand."
Mei Terumi stood up. "Sorry to