Chapter 468: A Fragile Alliance

## The Warning

"The killing intent is evident, but the senior doesn't seem to sense it. It's understandable why he harbors resentment. After all, the war began under your leadership, and his parents were among the casualties. But still..."

Shinki decided that a simple warning to the Third Kazekage about Sasori's hostile intentions was sufficient.

In the original timeline, the Kazekage fell victim to poisoning because he underestimated Sasori. If he remained vigilant, there was no way Sasori could eliminate him so easily. The Third Kazekage was, after all, considered the strongest of all Kazekage.

"Why are you telling me this?" the Third Kazekage asked, his tone tinged with irritation.

He struggled to understand why Sasori bore such a grudge against him. Yes, the war was conducted under his leadership, but Sasori's parents were shinobi of the village. Sacrifices in war were an unfortunate reality.

And what about Chiyo, Sasori's grandmother? She played a significant role in the war effort. Yet Sasori did not seem to direct his hatred toward her. Instead, his anger focused solely on the Kazekage.

The realization of Sasori's murderous intent unsettled the Kazekage. He had watched Sasori grow from a child into a talented shinobi, even nurturing him as a potential future leader. Yet Sasori harbored secret malice.

Shinki gently placed his wine glass down and spoke candidly:

"I want to ensure the stability of relations between Konoha and the Sand Village. If something were to happen to you, chaos would undoubtedly engulf the Sand Village. Rasa might take over as the next Kazekage, but could the relationship between our villages endure such a transition?"

"You're doing this for Tsunade, aren't you?" the Kazekage retorted.

Shinki didn't deny it. "Yes," he admitted with a calm smile. "This is for Tsunade."

## A Business Proposal

Shinki shifted the conversation. "By the way, the wine from your village is exceptional. I'd like to purchase a batch."

"I'll give you some as thanks for the warning," the Kazekage offered.

"No," Shinki replied firmly. "You work hard for your village. Let me pay for it."

He leaned forward slightly, tapping the table for emphasis. "I'm serious. Also, if the wine is properly packaged, it could compete in high-end markets. Low production isn't an issue—rarity only adds value to high-quality products."

The Kazekage appeared hesitant. "The world has no shortage of good wine. Many regions produce varieties just as excellent as ours, if not better."

"That's why branding matters," Shinki explained. "If you're uncertain, consider sending some to Konoha. What about a partnership between our villages?"

Shinki could see the Kazekage was mulling over the idea.

## Sasori's Threat

"Sasori..."

Standing atop the Kazekage's office building, the Third Kazekage gazed over the village, his mind heavy with uncertainty. How should he address the issue of Sasori?

Meanwhile, Shinki returned to his room at the inn, where he found Pakura sitting silently on the bed, visibly upset.

"Got scolded?" Shinki asked lightly.

Pakura hesitated but eventually nodded. "They called me a traitor," she said quietly. "Not everyone, but some. I feel like things with my old friends will never be the same."

"Focus on your current role," Shinki said, placing a hand on her head and ruffling her hair in an attempt to cheer her up. "Think about it from your new perspective."

Pakura murmured, "My perspective?"

She reflected on her situation. Was she truly a traitor?

No. She was now aligned with Konoha. Why should she dwell on such accusations? Her defection wasn't arbitrary.

Her former comrades treated her cautiously, and while it hurt, she understood their position. Relationships had shifted.

The fact that some still approached her indicated lingering goodwill. However, it was clear that navigating these relationships would now require tact to avoid misunderstandings.

As Pakura considered this, the heavy burden on her chest began to lift.

She looked up and asked, "Do you think we'll ever be able to get along like before?"

"That depends on the bond between Konoha and the Sand Village," Shinki replied honestly. "The closer the two villages become, the easier it will be. Over time, as old resentments fade, reconciliation isn't impossible."

Pakura seemed somewhat reassured but still uncertain. Shinki smirked teasingly. "Is there a reward for my advice?"

Pakura gave him an incredulous look. "What kind of reward are you expecting?"

## A Difficult Decision

As the caravan departed the Sand Village, the Third Kazekage stood atop the fortress near the main gate. Chiyo appeared beside him, bowing slightly.

"Lord Kazekage," she said respectfully.

He nodded but kept his gaze fixed on the caravan. "Chiyo, how reliable is Shinki's warning? What should I do about Sasori?"

Chiyo handed him a scroll without speaking. The Kazekage unrolled it, his expression hardening as he read.

"Rinnegan? Are we certain about the accuracy of Konoha's intelligence?"

"Yes," Chiyo confirmed. "Sarutobi Hiruzen has corroborated it. Konoha isn't concealing this information—they've shared it with allies, though they prefer it remains confidential."

The Kazekage's mind raced. The Sharingan was already a significant threat, but now the Rinnegan?

Chiyo continued, "Tsunade is poised to become Hokage. She seeks to strengthen ties between our villages, intertwining our interests."

Shinki's intentions were clear, and now it seemed Tsunade shared his vision.

A deeper alliance could only prove beneficial for the Sand Village.