Inside Konoha's frontline camp, Hiashi sat around a sand table with a group of Jonin.
"According to reconnaissance, Rasa's remaining forces have fallen back to the Land of Wind's border."
Hiashi pointed to a canyon. "I suggest our main force push through here, supported by the Hyuga Clan's Byakugan..."
Before he could finish, a Chunin hurriedly lifted the tent flap.
"Report! Sunagakure has sent an envoy requesting an audience!"
A stir immediately ran through the tent.
Tsume Inuzuka frowned. "An envoy at a time like this? Could they be feigning surrender?"
"Bring him in," Hiashi said gravely.
A moment later, Baki walked in calmly.
After surveying everyone, he bowed slightly.
"I am Baki, a Jonin of Sunagakure, here on Lord Rasa's orders to negotiate peace."
"Peace?" Hiashi frowned. "Sunagakure still has at least half its troops. Why negotiate peace now?"
With a bitter smile, Baki took a scroll from inside his clothes.
"To be frank, Kirigakure has taken advantage of our war with your village to seize three coastal strongholds."
He unfurled the map on the document. "Our forces simply cannot fight on two fronts."
Hiashi exchanged a glance with the Jonin beside him.
The Jonin whispered in Hiashi's ear, "According to our intelligence, Kirigakure has indeed occupied some of Sunagakure's territory."
Hiashi considered it for a while. "Lord Hokage will need to make the final decision on peace negotiations."
"Please stay in our camp for a few days for now."
Baki bowed respectfully. "Of course."
As soon as he finished, a Konoha ninja escorted Baki out of the tent.
The ninja was both guiding Baki and keeping watch over him.
Outside the tent, Yūto happened to be passing with a squad of Uchiha.
He recognized Baki at a glance. After all, Sunagakure only had a handful of Jonin in