Chapter 241: The Test from the Third Raikage!

The Third Kazekage faced a maddening dilemma, as did Ohnoki. Neither wanted to pay the compensation, but refusing wasn't an option.

The current situation made it clear: anyone who disagreed would become a target, facing retaliation.

This was evident from Shinki's bold actions—attacking Sunagakure during the Five Kage Conference, bombing the village and inflicting significant damage, all to deliver a warning. Shinki was audacious and ruthless, and no one dared underestimate him.

"I agree!"

What else could they do but grit their teeth and accept? Negotiations with Konoha could always come later.

Hokage Residence

The Third Hokage wore a solemn expression.

"This sneak attack has caused considerable damage to Sunagakure. I'm concerned..."

"The damage isn't too severe," Shinki interrupted with a calm smile. "It only destroyed some buildings. There were no attacks on people—it was simply a warning."

He shook his head slightly, signaling to the Hokage that there was no need to worry.

"Even if things escalate, the fish may die, but the net will remain intact," Shinki added.

He continued, "The other villages will agree to compensate—they have no other choice. Once they step onto this path, there's no turning back. Refusal would mean retaliation, and war is simply out of the question. Before their armies even reach the battlefield, their villages could be bombed to ruins."

The logic was simple. Threats of war carried no weight when their homes were already at risk.

If Iwagakure, Kumogakure, and Kirigakure agreed to compensate, Sunagakure would have no alternative but to follow suit.

The Third Hokage observed Shinki's confidence and sighed inwardly. If only there had been no falling out... Konoha could have been the strongest among the Five Great Nations—or even the only great nation.

But there was no point in regrets. It was all Danzo's fault!

Had Danzo not acted independently, the situation wouldn't have escalated. The Third Hokage, of course, conveniently ignored his own greed in the matter, laying all blame on Danzo.

"But Sunagakure can't afford the compensation. Iwagakure might also face difficulties," the Hokage pointed out.

Sunagakure was impoverished, and Iwagakure's economy was limited. Both lacked the resources to meet Shinki's demands.

"It's simple," Shinki replied, handing over a list. "If they don't have money, they can pay in resources."

The list detailed the specific minerals and resources Konoha required. Shinki didn't demand gold or silver—he wanted valuable materials for puppet creation.

The following day, the Third Hokage arrived slightly late to the meeting. The four Kage were already seated. The Third Mizukage and the Third Raikage appeared calm, but Ohnoki and the Third Kazekage looked visibly distressed.

"Have we reached an agreement?" the Third Hokage asked, his tone firm. "If there's no resolution today, I'll be forced to withdraw."

The ultimatum left no room for delay. The other Kage had been given their chance to negotiate.

"I have no objections," the Third Raikage declared. "But I would like to test Shinki's strength. Hokage, do you agree?"

The room fell silent. The Raikage's "test" was, in truth, a veiled challenge to gauge Shinki's capabilities. Ohnoki, the Third Mizukage, and the Third Kazekage had similar intentions but refrained from making the first move, allowing the Raikage to take the lead.

The Third Hokage cursed inwardly. That old fox!

Yet, he too was curious about Shinki's true strength. While Tsunade had warned him to avoid provoking Shinki at all costs, the Hokage couldn't help but harbor doubts. Shinki's record, apart from his medical expertise and puppetry skills, was unremarkable—aside from killing Hanzo of the Salamander.

"I cannot agree to Raikage's request," the Third Hokage replied. "But I will relay it to Shinki."

"There's no need," a voice interrupted. Shinki entered the room casually, his demeanor calm and confident.

"This meeting is unbearable," he said nonchalantly. "I want to wrap things up here and return to the village."

The Kage were taken aback by his confidence. Shinki's willingness to accept the challenge surprised even the Third Raikage.

"Very well," the Raikage said, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. He was eager to test the strength behind Shinki's reputation. Could Shinki withstand the Raikage's strongest spear? Could he break the Raikage's unyielding shield?

The Third Kazekage and Ohnoki exchanged glances, both surprised by Shinki's boldness. The Third Mizukage looked as though he'd seen a ghost.

They all knew the Third Raikage's fearsome strength. His unparalleled spear and shield made him a near-invincible opponent. His speed, power, and defense were almost without flaw.

Would Shinki truly be able to stand against him?

>>>>>

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