Chapter 415: Chapter 415: Rock Village Declares War
The war potential of Konoha and the Sand Village had been significantly drained, leaving them incapable of launching large-scale conflicts. However, with the financial and logistical support from Kumogakure, a new conflict could ignite.
But how many forces would Konoha and the Sand Village need to commit to hold back Iwagakure? This dilemma made it impossible for Iwagakure to target Kumogakure with full force.
Could bribery be the answer?
The idea seemed promising in theory, but reality was far less forgiving. Iwagakure was not wealthy enough to offer incentives that could persuade Konoha or the Sand Village to betray their ally. Furthermore, Konoha's reputation as an honorable village and its alliance with Kumogakure made such a betrayal nearly impossible.
The Third Hokage, known for his integrity, would never risk Konoha's reputation for short-term gains.
This left Iwagakure in a precarious position. Declaring war against Kumogakure meant potentially facing a counterattack from three villages: Kumogakure's aggressive retaliation and Konoha and the Sand Village's strategic resistance.
Among them, Kumogakure would undoubtedly mount a fierce counteroffensive. Meanwhile, Konoha and the Sand Village might only commit enough forces to keep Iwagakure occupied, but their involvement could not be ignored.
Upon returning to Iwagakure, Ohnoki found himself troubled by these calculations. He shared his concerns with his son, Kitsuchi, hoping for a fresh perspective. Kitsuchi listened carefully before offering his insight.
"Father," Kitsuchi began, "even though Kumogakure is wealthy, there's a limit to how much financial and material aid they can provide to Konoha and the Sand Village. Supporting two allies while fighting a war on two fronts will drain their resources quickly.
"Konoha's involvement is merely a fulfillment of their ally's obligation. The Sand Village is simpler—they're in it for financial aid and resources. But if Kumogakure's support dries up, both villages will withdraw."
Ohnoki blinked in realization. Kitsuchi's analysis was sharp. Even Kumogakure, with its considerable resources, couldn't sustain a multi-front war indefinitely.
He nodded, the weight of his son's words sinking in. "You're right. Kumogakure's financial reserves might be vast, but they're not limitless. Look at Konoha—the wealthiest village before the last war. Now they're struggling to recover. Even the Sand Village, which was already poor, has been drained completely. If Konoha could barely endure, how long can Kumogakure hold out?"
Ohnoki chuckled, pride swelling in his chest at his son's sound reasoning. But he quickly composed himself. "Hmm, good analysis. But don't get cocky! Always keep an open mind and keep learning."
"Yes, Father," Kitsuchi replied obediently, his face bright with a naive smile.
Encouraged by this logic, Ohnoki began to see the advantage Iwagakure could leverage. The current geopolitical landscape favored decisive action. Kumogakure was tied up with the Mist Village. Konoha was in a weakened state, and the Sand Village was barely holding on. Even if Kumogakure provided aid to its allies, the scale of support would inevitably be limited.
Iwagakure could divide its forces—sending a smaller contingent to keep Konoha and the Sand Village occupied while focusing the majority of its strength against Kumogakure. Even if outright victory was uncertain, the act of war itself would serve to vent years of frustration and humiliation suffered at the hands of Kumogakure.
The decision wasn't made lightly. Ohnoki knew the risks, but the opportunity was too tempting. The village's stagnation in development and the growing frustrations among Iwagakure's military and citizens made it clear: action was necessary.
A high-level meeting was called, and the mood was electric. The proposal to declare war was put forth, and the results were unsurprising. Two-thirds of Iwagakure's leadership, including the daimyo, supported the motion.
The consensus was clear. The village had endured enough suffering at the hands of Kumogakure. The hawkish faction, eager for revenge, found unexpected allies among the more cautious leaders, uniting the village in their purpose.
Iwagakure's declaration of war came swiftly and decisively. The usually reserved village shocked the ninja world with its boldness.
Even the Third Raikage, who had suspected that Iwagakure might make a move, was caught off guard by the suddenness of the declaration. He hadn't anticipated such decisiveness, especially from Ohnoki.
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