Crossing the Border

Sunagakure's predicament had not eased quickly despite Fourth Kazekage Rasa's diligent reforms. The Daimyo's Palace's budget cuts were like heavy shackles, clamping tightly around the village's lifeline. Supplies in the warehouses dwindled by the day, making it difficult to repair and replenish ninja equipment. Compensation for the fallen was repeatedly delayed as well, and discontent and anxiety quietly began to grow.

Inside the Kazekage's office, the atmosphere was even more solemn than usual. Rasa stared at the alarming report on the shortage of supplies on his desk, his face as dark as still water. The emergency meeting with the council of elders had already lasted an entire morning.

"We can't wait any longer." Rasa finally broke the silence, his voice hoarse but carrying unquestionable resolve. "If we sit and wait for death, there is only one road ahead. We must take the initiative and obtain the resources and space we need to survive from outside."

An elder asked worriedly, "Lord Kazekage, what do you mean?"

Rasa's finger struck the unfolded map heavily, landing within the Land of Rivers, which bordered the Land of Wind. "Here! The Land of Rivers! Its land is fertile, its resources abundant, and it is a vital passage to the Land of Fire! Konoha's local conflicts with the Hidden Rock Village and Kumogakure are intensifying. Their forces are bound to be dispersed, and their control over the Land of Rivers is at its weakest!"

He raised his head, his gaze sweeping across everyone present. "Under the pretext of 'searching for traces of the Third Kazekage,' the entire army will move out, cross the border, and enter the Land of Rivers! First, this will divert the village's internal conflicts and stir up morale. Second, we can seize control of parts of the Land of Rivers and plunder...