The Tsuchikage's Choice and Ōnoki's Mission

As Konoha unilaterally declared the start of the Second Ninja World War, the news swiftly spread to every ninja village.

Inside the Tsuchikage's office, the atmosphere was as oppressive as the sky before a storm. "Idiot! You're good for nothing but ruining things! You couldn't even kill one man, and you let him escape!" The Second Tsuchikage, Mū, roared in fury and slapped Shi Yu hard across the face. The tremendous force sent Shi Yu sprawling to the floor.

Cold sweat poured down Shi Yu's face. Enduring the burning pain in his cheek, he respectfully said, "My lord, who could have known those Konoha ninja would be so cunning? They even managed to evade the pursuit of our Hidden Stone ninja."

"Hmph! Look at the mess you've made. How are we supposed to clean this up now?" Mū continued to roar angrily.

Shi Yu lowered his head tremblingly and quietly suggested, "Lord Tsuchikage, I propose that we join forces with the ninja villages of the other four nations and attack Konoha together. That way, we may have a chance to take Konoha."

Ōnoki stepped forward, respectfully bowed to the Second Tsuchikage, and said, "Teacher, I believe this matter requires careful consideration. Joining forces with the ninja villages of the other four nations to attack Konoha may seem like a good plan, but there are far too many uncertainties."

"Hmph, what uncertainties? Go on, tell me!" The Second Tsuchikage frowned deeply, fixing Ōnoki with a piercing gaze.

Ōnoki frowned slightly and said slowly, "Konoha's strength must not be underestimated. They have many ninja with varied abilities. While joining forces with the ninja villages of the other four nations would give us a numerical advantage, every village has its own agenda. It would be difficult to ensure everyone worked together wholeheartedly. If