But reality soon doused his enthusiasm with cold water.
"But... building a shinobi village like that would require enormous funds and resources. We would also have to coordinate with all sides and balance the existing powers..." The daimyo hesitated, his face full of conflict. "This would inevitably affect... affect the court's expenditures, as well as my... ahem, quality of life."
Ultimately, he simply could not bear to give up his current life of lavish indulgence.
How could paying to maintain an army possibly be as pleasant as spending the money on himself?
What if he poured in a fortune only for it all to go to waste?
Watching the daimyo's greedy yet cowardly expression, a barely perceptible chill flashed through the adviser's eyes, but his tone remained respectful. "My lord, this concerns the nation's fate. It does require careful consideration..."
While the shocking intelligence and difficult decision stirred undercurrents within the Daimyo's Palace, something closely connected to the Land of Fields was also happening in Konoha.
The Hokage's Office.
Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi held a pipe between his teeth as he looked at the calm-faced Uchiha Makoto standing before him.
"Makoto, I imagine you've heard about Kumogakure's unusual movements along the border." Hiruzen Sarutobi blew out a smoke ring. "While fighting may not actually break out, deterrence is necessary. I intend to send an elite force to garrison the border and demonstrate Konoha's resolve. Fugaku recommended you, believing your abilities and reputation make you qualified to take charge."
He paused, watching Uchiha Makoto's reaction. "Of course, if you have other missions or training plans, you may bring them up."
Uchiha Makoto sneered inwardly.
Did they want to send him to the border because they truly needed a deterrent, or were they trying to remove him, one of the "Uchiha twin