NOVEL NEXT Chapter 15: Ready for war
Chapter 15: Ready for War
The warfront was a flurry of activity as each faction prepared for the inevitable clashes.
Sakumo Hatake, a veteran leader and strategist, arrived at his designated camp with Team 4 in tow. Alongside them were familiar faces: Minato Namikaze, still a chunin but showing great promise; Nawaki Senju, eager to prove himself as Tsunade's younger brother; and Dan Kato, a skilled medical ninja known for his Spirit Transformation Technique.
Sakumo convened a meeting with the Jonin representatives of the allied clans stationed at their post.
"Our primary concern is Sunagakure's Chiyo," Sakumo began, his tone serious. "She's infamous for her mastery of poisons and puppetry. Without sufficient medical support, we're at a disadvantage."
The Nara clan representative leaned forward. "We've prepared some antidotes from our clan's stores. While they aren't universal, they should help with most common poisons."
The Aburame representative added, "Our insects have detoxifying properties that can handle specific toxins. However, we can't guarantee their effectiveness against Chiyo's more advanced poisons."
Sakumo nodded but remained grim. "Chiyo's poisons evolve. What works once may fail the next time. We must rely on caution and strategy, not just antidotes."
The Uchiha and Hyuga representatives discussed their scouting capabilities and concerns about Sunagakure's hidden traps and ambushes. By the end of the meeting, strategies were laid out, though a sense of unease lingered.
After the meeting, Sakumo gathered Team 4.
"You'll remain behind the frontlines as support troops," he informed them. "Your priority is to assist with emergencies and protect the camp. Shin, I want you on standby in case of severe injuries."
Shin breathed a quiet sigh of relief. He knew his limitations and understood that his role could save lives without putting him directly in harm's way.
Hikari nodded, feeling a mix of gratitude and apprehension. Kakashi, however, clenched his fists. His burning desire to stand alongside his father on the frontlines was evident, but he respected Sakumo's decision.
Other genin teams were similarly assigned to logistical roles—guarding supply lines, aiding medics, and ensuring the camp's security.
On the frontlines, chunin like Minato and Shisui were given critical assignments. Minato, with his exceptional speed and tactical mind, was tasked with reconnaissance and hit-and-run operations. Shisui, known for his Uchiha Sharingan, was paired with a specialized team to handle high-risk missions.
The tension among the younger shinobi was palpable, but their determination to protect their village pushed them forward.
At Hiruzen Sarutobi's camp, a parallel meeting was underway. Jiraiya, Tsunade, and Orochimaru stood before the Hokage, alongside the heads of the Uchiha and Hyuga clans.
"The three of you will face Amegakure," Hiruzen ordered his students. "Hanzo must be kept in check. His involvement in this war could tip the balance."
"Understood," Tsunade replied, her voice steady. Orochimaru smirked, already formulating strategies in his mind. Jiraiya, though serious, couldn't help but crack a small joke to ease the tension.
Meanwhile, the Hokage assigned Shusui Uchiha to lead a team comprising Yamanaka Inoichi, Nara Shikaku, and Akimichi Choza against Iwagakure. The Ino-Shika-Cho trio, heirs to their respective clans, were a formidable force. Shusui's unique Sharingan techniques made him an invaluable asset to their strategy.
In Sunagakure's camp, Chiyo gathered her forces. Beside her stood her brother, Ebizo, and the Second Kazekage, whose commanding presence instilled discipline in their troops.
"Chiyo," the Kazekage said, "ensure your poisons and puppets break through Konoha's defenses. This war must tilt in our favor."
Chiyo smirked. "They won't know what hit them."
Similar preparations occurred in the camps of Iwagakure and Amegakure, each village readying their troops for the battles to come.
As night fell, the various camps quieted, the stillness only amplifying the tension. Shin lay in his tent, staring at the ceiling. His thoughts wandered to his family and the twins crying as he left. He clenched his fist, silently vowing to survive and return.
In the command tent, Sakumo reviewed maps and strategies. He glanced at the campfires, where his son and other genin rested. "They're too young for this," he muttered, his heart heavy.
War was upon them, and no one could predict who would survive the storm.