章節 98: Negotiation
While Temari and I continued our tour of the village, the Konoha delegation had already gathered in the Kazekage's office.
"Kazekage-sama," his assistant announced respectfully, "the shinobi from Konoha have arrived for the negotiations."
Rasa, seated in his chair with a calm but focused expression, nodded. "Very well. Lead them to the council room; it should be suitable for these discussions."
"Yes, Kazekage-sama," the assistant replied with a bow, then left the room to guide the Konoha representatives.
Watching him depart, Rasa thought to himself, I'm surprised they resolved their issues so swiftly. It's for the best, though—the sooner we can come to terms, the sooner our villages can stabilize.
The assistant returned to Shikaku and the others waiting outside. "Please follow me; Kazekage-sama will meet you in the negotiation room."
As they entered the designated room, Shikaku took a moment to observe his surroundings. The room was modest but elegant, with a low table in the center and simple cushions arranged around it. The windows were narrow, allowing only minimal sunlight to filter through—designed to keep the room cooler in the intense heat of Suna. Kakashi, Sakura, Sasuke, and the other shinobi accompanying Shikaku settled themselves, remaining alert yet composed.
A few moments later, Rasa entered, his expression unreadable as always. He took his seat across from Shikaku, nodding in greeting. "I appreciate Konoha's willingness to discuss our recent tensions so swiftly," he began, his tone calm and measured. "It's in our best interest to restore stability between our villages."
Shikaku inclined his head respectfully. "Likewise, Kazekage-sama. We all benefit from peace, especially in times like these, when our people's trust in us is essential. I hope we can come to an agreement that strengthens both Suna and Konoha."
Rasa's gaze shifted briefly to the Konoha shinobi accompanying Shikaku. He noted the presence of Team 7, particularly Sasuke, whose prowess he'd witnessed during the Chunin Exams. "I see Konoha has chosen to bring its brightest here. Perhaps as a show of good faith?"
Shikaku gave a small smile. "Konoha's strength lies not just in power but in unity. We thought it would be helpful to have a team familiar with your own young shinobi, to bridge any divides."
Rasa nodded slowly. "Then let's not waste any more time. I would like to hear Konoha's proposal regarding the terms of our alliance and the support we require." He leaned forward, signaling that he was ready to hear their offer.
Rasa began, "With the recent... unfortunate conflict, both our villages have endured losses. Sunagakure is committed to ensuring such misunderstandings do not occur again. We desire a fair arrangement, one that acknowledges the needs of both parties."
Shikaku nodded thoughtfully. "Konoha is open to fair terms. We understand that Suna has unique challenges—especially regarding resources and supplies. We're prepared to offer support, but we hope for transparency and a shared commitment to peace."
Rasa's gaze hardened slightly, though his tone remained respectful. "Indeed, transparency is vital. We can start by discussing the supply aid, but I would also like to ensure that the security needs of both villages are met, particularly as tensions have risen between certain nations."
As the discussion unfolded, Shikaku skillfully navigated each point, balancing Konoha's interests while remaining sensitive to Suna's situation. Kakashi and the others watched the exchange closely, respecting Shikaku's judgment but ready to offer insight if necessary.
The conversation turned to more specific arrangements: terms of resource sharing, mutual defense pacts, and contingencies for emergency support. Rasa listened intently, occasionally glancing at Shikaku as if measuring the depth of Konoha's commitment.
After an hour of careful negotiation, the mood in the room had shifted from formal diplomacy to something closer to mutual understanding. Both sides were beginning to see how they could benefit from a genuine alliance rather than a temporary arrangement.
Eventually, Shikaku leaned forward, signaling the final stages of their discussion. "I believe we've reached a fair understanding, Kazekage-sama. Konoha will provide a steady supply of food and water in exchange for Suna's cooperation and shared security measures. Together, we can face any threats that arise."
Rasa considered his words carefully, then gave a single nod. "Agreed. For the sake of both our villages, I look forward to this partnership."
As the negotiations wrapped up, Rasa leaned back and glanced around the room. His expression shifted to a slight frown. "By the way… where is Naruto? He's a member of your team, right, Kakashi?"
Kakashi let out a slightly awkward chuckle. "Well… Naruto has a habit of taking his own approach. He ran off with your daughter, Temari. I think they're… on a date."
Rasa's eyes widened momentarily, his brows furrowing. "He just arrived, and he's already off courting my daughter?" His tone carried a hint of irritation.
Sakura couldn't resist a small smile. "It's Naruto—he has a way of connecting with people quickly. And it seems like Temari doesn't mind… if anything, she seemed rather happy with him."
Rasa let out a sigh, shaking his head. "That boy certainly has a bold approach. But… if it's what Temari wants, I suppose it wouldn't be such a big deal if they ended up together someday." He crossed his arms thoughtfully. "Still, he could've at least waited until after the negotiations."
Shikaku chuckled. "Naruto has a habit of following his own path, Kazekage-sama. But I think it's fair to say he's left a strong impression—both here and in Konoha. If he and Temari do decide to pursue something serious, I'm sure he'll be loyal and protective of her."
Rasa decided to put aside his frustration. "Very well. Let Naruto and Temari spend time together. This alliance may be strengthened if they choose each other. But rest assured, I'll keep an eye on him. Well, I suppose time will tell."
The Konoha team shared a glance, feeling optimistic about the new alliance and amused by the unexpected bond growing between their villages—thanks to my bold approach to diplomacy, both on and off the battlefield.
The negotiation was finally over, and the tense atmosphere in the room started to lighten. Rasa, now looking more at ease, addressed the group.
"Anyway, the negotiation has been concluded. You all have some free time before you leave our village. Or if you'd prefer, you can rest; I imagine the travels have taken their toll," he said, offering us a chance to unwind.
Shikaku, as always calm and composed, gave a respectful nod. "Thank you, Kazekage-sama. We appreciate your hospitality, and we'll take our leave now."
"Alright then, see you all later," Rasa replied, his tone a bit warmer now that the matter was settled.
With that, we all began to leave the room. Sakura and Sasuke, both clearly hungry after everything, decided to grab some dinner. The rest of us were tired, so we opted to rest and recover from the long journey and the events of the day.
As the sun started to set, the day came to an end. The negotiations had gone smoothly, and I had enjoyed my time with Temari. With everything wrapped up, I returned to rest with the others, feeling a bit more at ease knowing that Suna had agreed to the terms, and we had accomplished our goals.
每周推薦票狀態
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榜單 
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