Inside the inn.
Nara Shikaku and his group came once again looking for Tsunade.
Previously threatened by Ayane, the trio did not rush to leave. Even though they knew the surprise attack plan on the front lines had completely failed, without orders from the Hokage, they couldn't act on their own and could only send the news back to Konoha for the higher-ups to decide.
Additionally, they had received news that one of the Sannin, Jiraiya, had been captured. By now, he's likely incarcerated by the Ninjas of the Land of Demons, ready for interrogation.
This means that for every second Jiraiya spends in the Land of Demons' prison, the risk of Konoha's secrets being exposed increases.
The immediate priority is to think of ways to get Jiraiya out of prison, not only because of the secrets he holds but also because he is the disciple of the Hokage and one of the leading candidates for the future position of Fifth Hokage.
If he's killed in action on the front lines, it's one thing; but if he hasn't been sacrificed, the village will surely find a way to rescue Jiraiya.
The challenge before them isn't just the formidable military strength of the Land of Demons. In such unfamiliar territory, any rash action would only alert the enemy.
"What are you three brats doing here again?"
In the inn's lobby, Tsunade asked with a face full of annoyance, looking quite irritable.
Nara Shikaku and the others understood; the bond between the Sannin was like family, and with Jiraiya being imprisoned in the Land of Demons, Tsunade's mood couldn't possibly be good.
"Lady Tsunade, we've come to inquire about Lord Jiraiya's situation."
Shikaku said with a forced smile.
They had no choice; it was a strict order from the village leadership. They urgently needed Tsunade to confirm her stance before deciding on the next steps.
Currently, with Konoha severely lacking top-tier combat power, the absence of the Sannin has become a headache for the village.
"Why don't you just go and see him yourselves?"
Tsunade waved her hand dismissively.
At this moment, Shizune came over with a few cups of tea and placed them in front of Shikaku, the two others, and Tsunade, then silently stepped aside.
The trio thanked Shizune, but they weren't in the mood for tea.
"We've tried. Whether it's the Witch's side or the military, they all deny our request to visit him."
Shikaku explained helplessly.
The military gave a hard stance, saying that without orders from above, no one was allowed to visit the prison.
The Witch's side suggested seeking solutions from the previous Witch.
But was there really a connection between visiting Jiraiya and the previous Witch?
Though it might be an excuse, it was quite unsatisfactory.
Yet, in another's domain, one had to tread carefully, as any overstepping behavior might lead to repercussions.
The Land of Demons was currently celebrating their triumph over the Land of Wind, one of the Five Great Nations. At this time, Shikaku did not want to create more trouble for Konoha.
"That brat is so stingy. Such a request isn't even granted."
Tsunade murmured, clearly displeased.
Shikaku knew who Tsunade was referring to but said nothing.
"Don't worry; Jiraiya is not in any life-threatening danger, nor has he been interrogated. He's just detained, no different from any ordinary prisoner."
Tsunade took a deep breath and replied.
Shikaku nodded; his assessment was right. Tsunade indeed had the ability to check on Jiraiya, unlike them, who were tricked by the Witch and the military of the Land of Demons.
Even though Tsunade's relationship with Chiba Hakushi might not be as harmonious as before, there remains a 'teacher-student' bond, allowing Tsunade to visit Jiraiya, which is the limit.
So long as Tsunade doesn't touch the other's bottom line.
Once the bottom line is touched, considering the fate of thousands of Hidden Sand Ninja at the front lines, she might find her former mentor ruthless, choosing to decisively dispose of the problem.
However, visiting Jiraiya doesn't touch this bottom line; it's a spontaneous act of care.
"In other words, under enemy interrogation, there's still a chance of Jiraiya Lord revealing Konoha secrets."
Tsunade nodded reluctantly, not denying this.
Noticing Tsunade's worsening mood, with a hint of impatience, Shikaku knew there was no need to further question her; he just needed assurance that Jiraiya was temporarily safe.
He took a letter from his pocket and placed it on the tea table.
"Lady Tsunade, this is a letter from Lord Hokage, seeking your support."
After speaking, Shikaku bowed his head, enjoying tea with Inoichi and Chouza.
With suspicion on her face, Tsunade picked up the envelope. After tearing it open and quickly scanning the contents, her expression turned dark and somewhat alarming, making even the nearby Shizune hold her breath, avoiding the letter.
After approximately half a minute of silence, Tsunade emotionlessly stared at Shikaku and his companions, saying:
"Let them make their own decisions on this matter; I've long stepped back from village decisions. No matter the outcome, I will respect the village's wishes."
Shikaku let out a relieved breath but sighed inwardly.
"In that case, we will reply to Lord Hokage promptly and won't disturb your rest, Lady Tsunade. Farewell."
Shikaku rose from the sofa and swiftly left with Inoichi and Chouza.
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