Chapter 82

The emergence of Chakra cars has propelled Sunagakure's economic development into a full-blown boom.

Hitoshi requested the Research & Development Department to produce a series of heavy-duty trucks in the Little Overlord model, which greatly stimulated large-scale commercial development.

The previous limitations posed by the carrying capacity of materials, desert terrain, and carriages are no longer a problem with the Little Overlord truck in the Chakra car series.

Sachhi need not worry about the wheels getting stuck. We have mastered the techniques of light and heavy rock, which can make the truck agile and provide magnetic grip, ensuring a smooth ride.

As for cargo capacity, a single truck is worth more than a dozen others combined. Suffice it to say, it is more than enough.

This development has brought about a significant change in Sunagakure. Previously dominated by large merchants and nobles, a large number of small and medium-sized businesses have now emerged.

Both large merchants and nobles have money, and so do the smaller businesses. The combined effect of quality and quantity has elevated Sunagakure's population, housing prices, and overall provisions to new heights.

With this transformation, Sunagakure must continue to adapt and evolve.

................

In the Kazekage Building's conference room in Sunagakure, the city's high-ranking officials had gathered once again, including a limited number of Jonin.

In the past, the presence of Jonin was relatively small, allowing everyone to participate in the meetings. However, the situation had changed. With the increasing number of Jonin, it was no longer feasible for all of them to attend. Instead, representatives were selected to speak on behalf of the group.

"Ahem, esteemed Elders and Jonin representatives, let us discuss Sunagakure's future path in this meeting. Feel free to express your thoughts," Hitoshi broke the silence and spoke, observing the room filled with somber faces.

But there was still no response from anyone in the conference room.

It wasn't that they lacked respect, but rather they themselves were unsure about what to say.

"Kazekage-sama, could you please clarify what you mean by 'future path'?" cautiously and solemnly asked one of the Jonin, realizing he didn't fully grasp Kazekage-sama's intent.

"What does 'path' signify? Are we going to war?" Hitoshi furrowed his brow, observing the perplexed expressions on the faces of the Jonin and most of the Elders. They concealed it well, but he could sense a slight unease among them.

"The 'path' refers to Sunagakure's future direction. It's about choosing between our current path of commercialization through science and technology or reverting back to the previous militarization route. Do we aim to achieve wealth through technological advancements or pursue plunder as a means to riches?" Hitoshi explained, feeling the weight of Sunagakure's limited knowledge and education system.

After hearing Hitoshi's words, the room fell into complete silence, with even Shamon present. Their expertise in political maneuvers was solely based on experience, while their level of true knowledge was dishearteningly low.

"These are not matters for Kazekage-sama to consider. What relevance do they hold for us?" another Elder stood up and voiced his opinion.

Hitoshi couldn't help but feel frustrated upon seeing the seriousness in their eyes.

For a while, he was at a loss for words and found himself in an awkward position.

"Hitoshi, please explain. Many of us lack the necessary understanding," Shamon finally spoke, breaking the stifling atmosphere.

"The militarization route involves aggressive expansion, akin to the past. Sunagakure's natural resources are limited, so we would need to either be strong enough to secure sufficient resources or resort to exploiting other Shinōbi.

On the other hand, the commercialization route entails using science and technology to create wealth, as we currently do. This path involves continuously expanding our prosperity, setting aside the previous dignified Shinōbi image, and engaging in endeavors that were previously deemed insignificant," Hitoshi pondered, offering a detailed explanation.

"Let's think it through together. If we choose the military route, we should prepare for battles that may require us to sacrifice the foreign population residing in Sunagakure. It's a matter of seizing opportunities.

If we choose the second path, we must implement further reforms and expand the scope of Sunagakure on a larger scale," he concluded.

Silence pervaded the room, stretching infinitely.

"Kazekage-sama, if we opt for the military route, will my son still be able to attend school, have a sweet treat, and can I continue operating my shop?" questioned a middle-aged Jonin, representing the concerns of many.

He was a seasoned Shinōbi of Sunagakure, known to Hitoshi. A commoner who had fought for over twenty years, weathering countless storms to reach his current Quasi-Kage strength and status. He represented a significant portion of the population.

"In the military route, sacrifice is inevitable. The frontlines are demanding, and I cannot guarantee that your son will complete his education.

Without foreign merchants, Sunagakure cannot sustain such a wide range of businesses. It's highly likely that your shop will face bankruptcy.

You will need to continue on the battlefield, as mission funds are available, but they cannot fully support your son's desire for delicious food," Hitoshi met his gaze and spoke frankly, leaving nothing to conceal. The militarization route requires unwavering commitment.

In an instant, a suffocating pressure emanated from the middle-aged Shinōbi. If it weren't for the presence of the high-ranking officials, with Jonin being the weakest among them, violence might have erupted.

"I am willing to forgo the dignity of Shinōbi and choose the commercial route of technological advancement to attain wealth," the middle-aged Shinōbi raised his head, his eyes bloodshot.

His words, filled with gritted determination, resonated with everyone in the room.

Even those who had advocated for the Shinōbi spirit and believed it couldn't be easily changed.

"Ah, ambition... Don't worry, I truly understand. The dignity of a Shinōbi is not worth a few coins when compared to the smile of my son," Jiezhi's words brought clarity to many present.

Indeed, the dignity of a Shinōbi holds little value compared to monetary gains. What matters more, having a girlfriend or having a son?

None of these concerns outweigh the other.

In that moment, the conference room erupted with renewed discussions, as everyone delved into a collective spiritual exploration, contemplating the path they should choose.

The military route, the traditional choice throughout history.

Shinōbi who lived for battle would die in battle.

Few Shinōbi achieved fame without falling on the battlefield.

Each one, as brilliant as fireworks, met their end through the pursuit of battle.

They believed this to be their destiny, never expecting a life of happiness.

"Ahem, everyone, since Kazekage-sama has granted us the freedom to choose, let us make good use of it.

Old man Gyosu, Kana Clan Clan Leader, having experienced decades of arduous battles, witnessed the glory of the god of Shinōbi.

Allow me to share a few words with all of you," Gyosu rose unsteadily, his loud voice breaking the silence.

All eyes turned towards him. Despite his age, Gyosu still possessed an air of majesty.

"Senpai, please proceed."

"We're listening, Senpai."

.........

"Dignity cannot satiate our hunger.

Fate does not provide us with the means to survive.

As Gyosu of the Kana Clan, I hereby declare our support for Kazekage-sama and the pursuit of wealth through technology, the path of commercialization," Gyosu declared with a mix of bitterness and joy.

In that moment, he no longer resembled an old man of several decades. Instead, he exuded the vigor of a young man.