Sure enough, a trace of indignation entered Jiraiya's voice as he continued:
"But... the word from the old man leans more toward caution."
He could not help taking another swig, then said with dissatisfaction:
"He wants to quit while we're ahead. Exchange Kitsuchi and some of the prisoners for supplies and monetary compensation from Iwagakure, and make them promise not to invade the Land of Fire's borders for a certain period... and just let them off that easily!"
Jiraiya's grip on the flask tightened slightly.
"We clearly hold an overwhelming advantage! We could clearly demand more, even bring this front to an end! But the old man... he's always worried that pushing too hard will provoke a fiercer counterattack, worried that other ninja villages will reap the benefits. All he ever wants is stability!"
"It's practically... winning a fight and still having to smile and bow!"
Lin Ze understood. That was very much like Hiruzen Sarutobi.
In the original story, Konoha had clearly suffered no losses in many wars, and had even made gains, yet it often chose to compromise at the negotiating table in the end, dressing it up as being "for the sake of peace as a whole."
That strategy might have maintained superficial stability, but it also unwittingly encouraged the ambitions of other ninja villages while draining Konoha's own reserves and fighting spirit.
The Will of Fire? Sometimes it seems more like an excuse for appeasement.
Other than finding Hiruzen Sarutobi's approach somewhat foolish, Lin Ze felt little anger over it.
"Lord Hokage has his own considerations."
Lin Ze gave a noncommittal reply.
Jiraiya glanced at him, seemingly trying to read something from his face, but ultimately only shook his head helplessly and drained the flask.
"Forget it. Let's stop talking about this aggravating stuff. The negotiations