A/N: Sorry for all of the short chapters lately. Next one will be longer!


Have we come to a suitable agreement?" Tsunade's voice was firm as she surveyed the clan leader, her hands folded in her lap.

"Of course," Hiashi replied in kind, his pearly stare unnerving some of her attendants on either side of her. "In exchange for immunity, I will grant you access to a faction of our young shinobi for the invasion date. I assume we have a deadline?"

"For now, it's a tentative guess of July 23," she answered reluctantly. "I've yet to hear from the palace to the contrary. For now, plan for a date of the 22nd in case we need to bump things up."

"Understood, Lady Ayame," the older man nodded, a hint of mischief gleaming in his eyes. "I look forward to our partnership."

"As do I, Hyuuga-sama," she replied, a smile playing on her lips. "Thank you for this wonderful opportunity."


The meeting had long since adjourned, and the trio was on their way back to camp when Haru, another of her guards, met them near the gates with a message.

"Jiraiya is on his way here as we speak," he said. "He should get here sometime within a few hours."

Tsunade's eyes widened in delight. "Seriously? He's finally coming back?"

"That's what the message stated, my lady," her trusted officer replied with mirth.

"It took him long enough," she huffed, though a smile threatened to break out onto her face as she continued on with her guards. "Notify me once his arrival is imminent. I'll need to break out the good booze."

"Yes, my lady."

"Any other news?" She questioned, turning to him. "What of the group traveling to Morino?"

"They've nearly arrived. They should get there at sundown."

"Excellent, everything's going according to plan." This time she really did smile, a beaming grin as they arrived back at the little campsite. "Thank you for your assistance. You're all excused."


A/N: Please tell me what you thought!