Revitalizing the Uchiha clan starts with becoming a Kage.

Even the ninja clans that were most steadfastly on Hiruzen Sarutobi's side, such as Nara, Akimichi, Yamanaka, Gekko, Inuzuka, Aburame, Kurama, and Shiranui, will be completely shaken!

They will become alienated from Hiruzen Sarutobi and the entire Hidden Leaf Village.

Ultimately, this could very well lead to an even more serious crisis: either a violent internal conflict within Konoha, or all the major ninja clans adopting the Uchiha's tactics and leaving Konoha. Regardless of which scenario unfolds, Konoha will face a devastating collapse.

346. Delay and Methods

This is an outcome that Konoha absolutely cannot accept.

Therefore, handing over the two is not a concern at all. At most, some alternative solutions can be used. Danzo is difficult to deal with, but Hiashi is a possibility. Hiruzen Sarutobi had already started making arrangements the moment he received the news. However, before officially taking action, he still wanted to listen to the opinions of his close friends, as well as Shikaku and Inoichi, to see if there were any better solutions to resolve the current crisis.

"Lu Jiu, you go first and tell us."

Hiruzen Sarutobi shifted his gaze to Shikaku Nara on his right and spoke in a slightly low voice.

Hiruzen Sarutobi had already made some preparations in advance, but to be honest, he was still quite uncertain. The situation in this life was much worse than in the original story. The reason was naturally the involvement of Shoji Uchiha and even the entire Hidden Stone Village. In the original story, Hiruzen Sarutobi was already somewhat overwhelmed. The reason why the Hidden Cloud Village accepted Konoha's 'sincerity' and did not actually go to war was twofold. First, they accepted almost all of their own unreasonable and excessive demands and did indeed gain tangible benefits. Second, the delicate nature of the ninja world's power structure made the Fourth Raikage somewhat hesitant.

With the incentives and restrictions in place, the war between Konoha and Iwagakure in the original story would naturally not have broken out. However, the situation in this life is very different. The Fourth Raikage, A, is drawn into the vortex of this mission just like Iwagakure, which is the biggest fear of the war against Konoha.

And both times, it was Konoha that provoked them!

The combined strength of the five thousand Iwa ninja concentrated on the border of the Land of Grass, plus the two Kage-level powerhouses, Huang Tu and Han, is not to be underestimated. A ninja village has a limited amount of power that it can mobilize. If it increases its strength here, it will inevitably leave some empty space in other places.

When the Third Tsuchikage chose to launch a large-scale invasion southward, the defensive pressure on the western side of the Land of Lightning was naturally greatly reduced. The Fourth Raikage, A, could be more daring in pressuring Konoha. This difference alone makes the predicament that Hiruzen Sarutobi is in this life several times worse than in the original story. If Hiruzen Sarutobi in the original story had a 60-70% chance of success, he probably doesn't even have a 30% chance in this life.

Listening to the opinion of Nara Shikaku, the strategist and the most intelligent person in Konoha, is the most important thing.

"Yes, Lord Hokage. First of all, I think your previous judgment of prioritizing the Cloud Village was correct. Although this is somewhat subjective, I think that based on the current situation, the probability of the Iwa Village launching a war against us is the highest. The Cloud Village is very likely not to launch the first wave of attacks, at least in the early stages. Therefore, our plan should not be changed. Stabilizing the Cloud Village on the eastern front and defending the Iwa Village army on the western front is the key!"

Nara Shikaku bowed slightly, then spoke with a solemn expression.

"Oh? Why do you say that Kumogakure won't launch an attack in the first wave, at least, Shikaku-kun?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi leaned forward slightly and looked at Shikaku Nara. Danzo, Homura Mitokado, and Koharu Utatane, who were sitting next to him, also adopted a serious and attentive expression at that moment.

Shikaku's judgment was direct and bold. Before this negotiation, they had been fighting a local war with Kumogakure in the Land of Hot Springs for three years. At the most tragic moment, they were just one step away from a full-scale confrontation. Now, there were four Kumogakure ninja on one side and the Iwagakure ninja on the other side were unharmed. It seemed that Kumogakure was the most aggressive and had the highest probability of launching the first attack.

Even Hiruzen Sarutobi, who initially decided to stabilize the Cloud Village side first, began to waver slightly upon seeing the Cloud Village's grand display of force. He even started to doubt whether his judgment was correct. If the Cloud Village and the Iwagakure Village were determined to launch a siege on Konoha, all his previous efforts and preparations would be in vain, and he would make a major mistake by missing a crucial opportunity.

Therefore, although Hiruzen Sarutobi seemed to have made some arrangements in advance, he was still somewhat indecisive. The situation was very different from that in the original work, and he found it difficult to be sure whether his next choice and judgment were correct and effective.

If we must use an analogy, the current situation is very similar to that when the Second Hokage had just died and Hiruzen Sarutobi had just taken over. Both are facing internal and external difficulties and are walking on thin ice. However, there is also a huge difference. At that time, Hiruzen Sarutobi was in his prime and full of ambition. He always maintained a high-spirited attitude in the face of difficulties, without self-doubt or fear.

But the current Third Hokage is already very old, and his courage and boldness have long been exhausted.

Whether Shikaku understands this or not, it's not his focus right now. As a member of Konoha, and belonging to a clan with deep-rooted ties, Nara Shikaku must stand firmly on the side of Hiruzen Sarutobi and the others, helping his Third Hokage by contributing all his wisdom and strength to help the village overcome this crisis.

A fully engaged brain leads to increasingly clear thinking.

"The reason is simple. The Fourth Raikage is just as wary of Iwagakure as ever, especially after the Uchiha clan joined the village. Iwagakure's strength has increased dramatically, as evidenced by the war with Sunagakure last summer. Although Kumogakure's primary target is still Konoha, they will not let their guard down against Iwagakure. For the Fourth Raikage, the best outcome would be for Konoha to both satisfy his demands and fight Iwagakure to the death. This is the most beneficial outcome for Kumogakure. Therefore, based on this, Kumogakure's desire and willingness to participate in the war before we officially start fighting Iwagakure, or even before a certain outcome is achieved, is certainly not high!"

Shikaku said firmly.

Upon hearing Shikaku's words, Hiruzen Sarutobi's expression shifted slightly. This also caused subtle changes in the expressions of Mitokado Homura, Koharu Utatane, and Danzo, who had been in a silent standby mode from the beginning.

"In response to this, I believe our village can take the initiative to show weakness to the Hidden Cloud Village, meet all of the Hidden Cloud Village's non-principle demands, and then focus on controlling the western defense line!"

"You mean to completely empty the eastern defense line and concentrate the main force to seek a decisive battle with the Iwagakure forces in a short period of time? But that would mean the east would be completely handed over to the Kumogakure. If the Kumogakure's actions are different from what was expected, that would be the biggest crisis!"

Upon hearing Shikaku's words, Mitokado Homura instinctively extended his thoughts, his brows furrowing slightly as he spoke.

"No, Elder Mitomon misunderstood me. Showing weakness on the east side is merely to demonstrate our 'sincerity' to Kumogakure, not to completely empty our defenses, nor to concentrate our forces for a decisive battle with Iwagakure. Rather, it's to drag Iwagakure into a protracted war. If necessary, we can even suffer a few minor defeats. The important thing is that we cannot lose key defensive areas. On this basis, we must show the entire ninja world the strength of Iwagakure and the 'weakness' of Konoha!"

When intelligent people analyze a situation, they can often see key points that others cannot. Taking advantage of the situation seems like a simple phrase, but it is actually very difficult to do. Shikaku has this ability. He can keenly judge the situation of the three great ninja villages that are now caught in the same vortex. Or, to be more precise, he can grasp the mentality of the three village kage. Using this as one of the reference points, the judgment he makes is the path that is infinitely close to the optimal solution. It is only the closest, not the certainty.

The reason is that Shikaku is not the real decision-maker in Konoha; he is merely an advisor. The final decision-making power rests with Hiruzen Sarutobi, which introduces a layer of uncertainty. In addition, the situation is always changing, and decisions made now are unlikely to have a real impact on the future.

All games must be played amidst change.

After listening to Nara Shikaku's plan in its entirety, the Konoha F4 all had a sudden realization. At that moment, they completely understood the core of Shikaku's plan. To put it bluntly, it was to make all countries, especially Kumogakure, see the 'threat' of Iwagakure. The Uchiha clan joining Iwagakure was already a signal, and the subsequent Iwagakure-Sand War further proved this point.

However, Konoha still had their backs against the wall.

All of this doesn't seem to be that urgent yet. In the current situation, if Konoha were to enter a weakened state, it would be hard to say what the Hidden Cloud Village would think or make a judgment about it.

Of course, we should take the benefits, but we can't ignore the threat that's right in front of us, right?

Moreover, Iwagakure is a mortal enemy of Kumogakure!

When it comes to the hatred forged during the Third Shinobi World War, none is more intense than that between Iwagakure and Kumogakure, since the only Kage to actually die in the war was the Third Raikage!

Hatred + Threat!

It is highly likely that this will divert the attention of the Hidden Cloud Village.

At that time, it won't be Konoha that needs to worry about the northeastern defense line of the Land of Fire, but Iwagakure that needs to worry about the eastern defense line of the Land of Earth. If everything goes smoothly, Konoha can launch a counterattack and make up for some of the lost benefits from the Land of Earth. It can be said that at this moment, all four members of Konoha have accepted Nara Shikaku's plan in their hearts!

Let's not use phrases like "a sure thing." Any plan has the possibility of unexpected events, and there will never be a plan that can be executed 100%. Ultimately, it all comes down to the probability of success. At least in the eyes of Hiruzen Sarutobi and the others, Shikaku Nara's plan was too feasible!

They certainly understood the risks and shortcomings involved, but this was undoubtedly the best solution they could see at this stage. The rest depended on the specific operations in the process, such as how to stabilize and divert the attention of Kumogakure, or how to reasonably maintain a relatively safe situation between the western front and Iwagakure while showing a certain degree of weakness. These all required the leader's micro-management skills!

After all, a single misstep could easily lead to a collapse. Not to mention Uchiha Shoji and Huang Tu, both Kage-level powerhouses, Han alone, the Five-Tails Jinchuriki, has the ability to change the course of the battle. If Konoha is not prepared, Han could single-handedly break through Konoha's defenses on the western front.

If it really turns into a complete rout!

That would be a true nightmare outcome for Konoha.

“I understand what you mean, Shikaku. This is indeed the most feasible plan. I entrust you with the strategic deployment on the western front. Shikaku, you will be in charge of all the necessary personnel and supplies. Inoichi, you will assist Shikaku. I will order the heads of all departments to fully cooperate with your deployment! All you need to do is to develop the corresponding defense plan as quickly as possible and let me review it.”

Hesitation will only lead to more trouble.

This was a very decisive decision.

Hiruzen Sarutobi looked at Shikaku Nara and Inoichi Yamanaka and said this.

"Yes, Lord Hokage!"

"Also, Koharu, you should immediately send people to notify all the major ninja clans to come to a meeting. This is a time when we need to gather the strength of the entire village. Only by working together can we overcome this crisis. As for the Hyuga clan, En, I'll have you come with me. There are some issues that need to be discussed in person!"

This is a critical moment to take immediate action.

At this moment, Hiruzen Sarutobi also showed some of the courage and boldness that one should have as Hokage, and split up to take action against the Konoha high-ranking officials.

As the events unfolded, the entire Hidden Leaf Village descended into a chilling and anxious atmosphere. The arrival of war once again was news that could not be concealed. With the armies of both countries advancing and the movement of tens of thousands of people in their own village, every citizen of Hidden Leaf Village realized that the peace they had previously celebrated had once again become an illusion. Anxiety and restlessness filled the hearts of the vast majority of the people.

Even so, Konoha Village remained relatively stable overall. Firstly, Konoha had experienced similar situations several times before, and the older residents were already used to it. Secondly, although news of the war could not be concealed, the higher-ups, such as Hiruzen Sarutobi, obviously could not reveal all the truth. The people did not realize how critical the situation their village was facing, so they were not really too panicked.

Even some ordinary ninjas at the bottom of Konoha were not aware of such a situation. Only those in high positions or from powerful ninja clans could clearly realize how terrifying the approaching Kumogakure and Iwagakure were.

The high-level expanded meeting was held in a hurry, and the leaders of the major ninja clans and the heads of various departments left in a hurry. As they learned about the responsibilities they should bear, the huge war machine of Konoha Village was also in full operation at this moment. As the ninja village with the largest number of ninjas in the Konoha ninja world, Konoha Village can mobilize a ninja army of more than 20,000 people when it is in full operation!

This is also the source of Konoha's confidence in taking on two or even three opponents at once in past wars. Although the Fourth Shinobi World War did not break out directly this time, and Kirigakure and Sunagakure were still in spectator mode, and Kumogakure and Iwagakure were not going all out, the combined number of ninjas from the two major ninja villages was close to 10,000. The pressure brought by the two tailed beast jinchūriki forced Konoha to go all out!

Especially in the absence of top-tier experts, how to deal with the Five-Tails Jinchuriki of Iwagakure and the Two-Tails Jinchuriki of Kumogakure are key considerations for Konoha. Under the full authorization of the Third Hokage and the overall planning of Nara Shikaku, Konoha also deployed its elite specialized troops to the western front as soon as possible.

It's naturally difficult to say whether these people can suppress the Jinchuriki of the Tailed Beasts.

However, in terms of compatibility, it is the most suitable configuration for dealing with these extraordinary forces when there are no top-tier powerhouses to suppress the tailed beasts in a one-on-one battle.

Ultimately, of the nine tailed beasts, the first seven are still manageable for ordinary people. This is the main reason why Konoha only felt a sense of urgency but wasn't particularly afraid. Referring to the battle between Naruto and Gaara in the original story, although Shukaku's power was probably less than a third of its full potential, Naruto at that time was at most slightly stronger than an elite Chunin. The fact that he could barely suppress Shukaku, along with the summoned Gamabunta, shows that the first seven tailed beasts can be dealt with using conventional power!

Moreover, since the emergence of the Tailed Beast Jinchuriki, very few people have become the most perfect Jinchuriki, capable of using the power of the Tailed Beast to its fullest extent!

This is also a key point that can be addressed.

The increased deployment of forces to the western front and the further strengthening of ties with Kumogakure are two strategic moves that Konoha has not deliberately concealed. This attitude will undoubtedly please Kumogakure and enrage Iwagakure.

Regardless of Konoha's intentions.

This is a blatant display of contempt for Iwagakure. It is obvious that Konoha's strategy was not beyond his expectations. In the original story, weren't Konoha's high-ranking officials always trying to please Kumogakure, almost begging for peace?

In this life, he still made the same decision, which was not beyond Jiang Si's expectations. The reason he ignored the demands of Iwagakure and even planned to have a head-on confrontation with Iwagakure was because...

Jiang Si guessed that there was probably only one reason.

"Is it because of our Uchiha clan? Well, that's fine too. I was planning to take this opportunity to 'enjoy' your wails. Hiruzen Sarutobi, Danzo Shimura, I hope you're prepared!"

Outside the main gate of Konoha Village, Shoji stood upright behind a tree, gazing at the Konoha reinforcements that were already the first to set off towards the western front. A faint glint of cold light flashed in his eyes as he murmured to himself.

After saying that, Jiang Si gave the seemingly prosperous Konoha Village one last cold look before leaping into the dense shade of the trees behind him and speeding westward!

The combined pressure from the two major ninja villages has already taken shape. No matter what the purpose of the Hidden Cloud Village is, even if they don't start fighting at first, the enormous pressure on the border will inevitably attract some of Konoha's attention. Even if Konoha really intends to fully agree to the Hidden Cloud Village's conditions, as long as the Hidden Cloud Village doesn't withdraw its troops, Konoha cannot really relax its eastern defenses!

This could attract at least three or four thousand, or even more, Konoha forces, which is exactly what Tsukasa wanted to see. Even someone as experienced and shrewd as Onoki could see the possibility that Kumogakure was sitting back and watching the two sides fight.

But that's not the point!

Onoki's initial intention was exactly the same as Shoji's.

Now, even if he were to fight Konoha one-on-one, Onoki wouldn't be afraid, not to mention that the power of Kumogakure is still concentrated to a limited extent on the northeastern border of the Land of Fire.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Iwagakure. Back then, they dared to engage in a direct main battle with Kumogakure while simultaneously sending elite troops south to scout ahead. Now, they have no reason to back down. This is Shoji's suggestion, and it also reflects Onoki's unwavering ambition and determination!

The ninja world is in turmoil.

Unlike previous conflicts that seemed grand in scale but ultimately turned out to be either minor skirmishes or short-lived, this time the three major ninja villages are sending out troops together, with the Hidden Cloud Village and the Hidden Stone Village even dispatching their tailed beast jinchūriki.

This is a blatant indication that the Fourth Shinobi World War is about to begin!

This clash, which already involves the three major ninja villages and has mobilized nearly 20,000 troops, is fully qualified to be called a new round of the Ninja World War.

Leaving aside the ninja villages of Amegakure, Kusagakure, Yugakure, and Takigakure, Sunagakure, who had been waiting for the right opportunity, learned of this news the moment it arrived.

Luo Sha immediately ordered the first round of mobilization in the village!

Whether or not a fight will happen is another matter, but some preparations still need to be made in advance.

This way, they can ensure that when the opportunity really comes, Sunagakure will not miss it. They must not think that last year's defeat has made Rasa completely disheartened; that will only intensify the anger deep in Rasa's heart!

Defeating Iwagakure, avenging their previous defeat, and reclaiming the northern fortress that belonged to Sunagakure was an obsession etched deep in Rasa's bones!

How could he possibly give up?!

Of course, after last year's defeat, Rosa will definitely be more cautious this time.

I didn't really see an opportunity.

For example, the direct defeat of Iwagakure.

This Fourth Kazekage would absolutely not make a move.

If we don't move, then we don't move.

Its actions are as swift and decisive as a thunderbolt!

This was Luo Sha's determination.