185.Peace Negotiations

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The Fourth Hokage has been stationed outside for a prolonged period, distanced from Konoha's political epicenter. Despite Uchiha Fugaku diligently fulfilling his role as the acting Hokage, the prolonged absence of the Fourth Hokage might lead the people of Konoha to forget about him and solely recognize the acting Hokage. Additionally, the unrest within the Uchiha clan necessitates his return to Konoha to address the issues firsthand. Essentially, the conflict with Akatsuki needs resolution without further delay.

"What steps should we take next? What are your thoughts?" the Fourth Hokage inquired, his tone suggesting he had already contemplated a solution.

"Indeed, we must initiate negotiations with Akatsuki," Jiraiya asserted seriously, his personal feelings influencing his stance. As a compassionate individual, he still considered Orochimaru a close friend and harbored hopes of reconciling with him. Similarly, he was reluctant to engage in a lethal conflict with his disciple, Nagato.

"This war has dragged on for far too long," Kakashi added, expressing his opinion.

"I must rescue my brother at any cost!" Uchiha Shisui declared with determination.

Kurenai and Yugito exchanged glances, having maintained contact with Yuki over the past six years through Kidō. They were reassured knowing he was safe and acting as a teacher within Rain Shinobi Village. Yuki had advised them against rash actions, promising to return once the war concluded. Trusting him unconditionally, they chose to exercise patience.

"Lord Fourth Hokage, during the negotiations, we should request Akatsuki to release Yuki," Kurenai suggested.

"I understand," the Fourth Hokage responded, nodding solemnly. Given that Shisui of the Body Flicker, Red Ghost, and Blue Demon Cat were among Konoha's elite ninjas and had close ties to Uchiha Yuki, their request warranted serious consideration.

"Rest assured, Yuki is a valued ally of Konoha, and I will ensure his return," the Fourth Hokage pledged firmly.

The following day, Konoha dispatched an emissary to communicate to the Akatsuki organization their desire for peace talks.

"What? Konoha demands the unconditional return of Uchiha Yuki?" Upon hearing Konoha's terms, Konan was the first to express her astonishment with evident excitement. Typically calm and composed, she appeared unusually agitated on this matter.

"It's merely a teacher. Is there a need for such a commotion?" Sasori commented indifferently.

"If Konoha's sole demand is this individual's return, then their proposal isn't unreasonable," Kakuzu observed, noting the sincerity of Konoha's peace overture. Having lost four hearts in the six-year conflict with Konoha, Kakuzu felt personally intimidated by their might. Moreover, the financial drain on Rain Shinobi Village was of no benefit to him, a character who cherishes wealth above all. Hence, he viewed this as a losing business deal.

"Indeed. After all, Konoha is a formidable entity we cannot afford to provoke," Kisame acknowledged, echoing the sentiment of pragmatism.

"Hey, what's this? Are we actually considering handing over Uchiha Yuki to Konoha?" Deidara vehemently protested, unable to hide his dissent. Under Yuki's mentorship, Deidara had seen significant improvements in his abilities, advancing him to Akatsuki's core member status. His influence within the organization was now undeniable.

Throughout the discussion, Orochimaru remained silent, uncertain if this situation was another of Yuki's capricious acts. Given Yuki's unpredictable nature, Orochimaru found it hard to gauge his intentions.

Nagato, with narrowed eyes, had initially dismissed Yuki as an inconsequential figure brought back by Konan. However, over six years, Uchiha Yuki had proven to be an exceptional educator within Rain Shinobi Village, nurturing a slew of talented individuals for Akatsuki, including Deidara.

Notwithstanding his radical views and belief in absolute power, Nagato couldn't deny Yuki's worth as a teacher. "Peace is Akatsuki's ultimate pursuit, but Konoha must also unconditionally withdraw from the Rain Country," Nagato stated firmly.

The Konoha messenger, a Nara clan ninja known for his sharp intellect rather than combat prowess, responded calmly, "Uchiha Yuki is a companion of Konoha, and rescuing a companion is a principle upheld by Hokage-sama."

Nagato found himself at a loss for words. Logically and morally, Konoha's insistence on retrieving Yuki was justified. Furthermore, given the current circumstances, Akatsuki was more desperate for peace than Konoha. The ongoing war was only exacerbating Rain Shinobi Village's financial crisis, and the halt in Akatsuki's ninja trafficking had depleted their talent pool.

After weighing all factors, Nagato ultimately conceded, "Fine, I accept Hokage's conditions."