shadow hokage dark moon

Chapter 64: War Preparations

Uchiha Tsukiko, Orochimaru, Jiraiya, and Tsunade, as Konoha's frontline commanders, gathered in the village's war strategy room immediately after receiving their mission orders.

This meeting room had witnessed countless war councils, its walls adorned with maps of the village, while a detailed topographical map of Amegakure was spread out on the table.

The four sat around the table, the atmosphere heavy with tension.

Hanzō of the Salamander was already a legendary figure, known throughout the shinobi world for his deadly poisons and formidable swordsmanship. His declaration of war against Konoha was a serious provocation, one that could not be ignored.

As Konoha's rising generation of elite shinobi, the four had to devise the most effective strategy for the impending battle.

Jiraiya was the first to speak, his tone thoughtful.

"Hanzō is an extremely troublesome opponent. His poisons are nearly unrivaled in the shinobi world, and with Amegakure's mountainous and rainy terrain, any airborne toxins will be even harder to evade. We must be extremely cautious and avoid underestimating him."

Tsunade nodded in agreement.

"Jiraiya is right. Hanzō's poison techniques are extremely dangerous. If we don't prepare properly, our forces could suffer heavy casualties. I propose that we prioritize anti-poison measures. Every soldier should be equipped with antidotes and protective gear."

Orochimaru, as always, remained composed.

"Hanzō is not just an expert in poison techniques; he is also a highly intelligent strategist. While Amegakure doesn't have the manpower to match Konoha, their shinobi are well-trained in guerilla warfare, using the terrain to their advantage. Fighting them on their home ground will amplify their strength. Our strategy must account for these conditions."

Uchiha Tsukiko, who had been listening intently, finally spoke.

"I agree with all of you. Hanzō isn't just a powerful shinobi; he's also a charismatic leader. His ability to unite Amegakure's factions is due not only to his strength but also his tactical brilliance. Aside from preparing for poison, we must gather as much intelligence as possible on Amegakure's defenses and Hanzō's movements before making our move."

He paused before continuing.

"Additionally, anti-poison measures must be prioritized. I suggest that before our departure, Konoha's medical division increases the production of antidotes and protective gear. We should also organize a specialized medical team trained specifically to handle poison-related injuries."

Tsunade immediately voiced her support.

"That's a great idea. I'll personally oversee Konoha Hospital's preparations. I'll also lead a medical unit into battle to provide emergency treatment for poisoned soldiers."

Jiraiya nodded.

"That will ensure our forces are well-protected. But in addition to defense, we need to consider how to lure the enemy into a trap. Amegakure's terrain is their advantage, but we can turn that against them. If we can anticipate their movements, we can create a battlefield where Hanzō will struggle to escape."

Orochimaru suggested another approach.

"We should consider a feint attack to scatter their forces. If we can make them believe our main force is attacking from one direction, we can launch a concentrated strike at their weak points and end this battle swiftly. Meanwhile, our intelligence network—including Tsukiko's Shadow Veil organization—should infiltrate Amegakure to uncover their strategies."

The four exchanged ideas, gradually refining a comprehensive battle plan.

Tsukiko added,

"We can divide our forces—Tsunade and I will lead the frontal assault, while Jiraiya and Orochimaru conduct a flanking maneuver. At the same time, scout teams will be deployed to ensure continuous intel flow."

The final plan was agreed upon:

Jiraiya and Orochimaru's units would launch feint attacks to lure out Amegakure's main forces, forcing them to expend their resources and poisons. Meanwhile, Tsukiko and Tsunade's forces would lead the main assault on Hanzō's stronghold.

The medical division would remain on standby to respond to poison-related casualties, ensuring the survival of Konoha's shinobi.

After the meeting, Tsukiko and Tsunade walked out of the war room together.

The night had deepened, and the streets of Konoha were silent under the moonlight. The silver glow cast long shadows as the two walked side by side.

Tsukiko glanced at Tsunade, sensing her unease.

"Tsunade, does this war make you nervous?"

Tsunade sighed softly, her golden eyes flickering with concern.

"Tsukiko, no matter how many battles I've fought, war still unsettles me. It's never just about victory or glory—it's about countless lives lost. This time, our opponent is Hanzō, a man whose poison techniques and combat skills are terrifying. I don't know how many people will die because of this war."

Tsukiko nodded, a complex emotion stirring within him.

After a moment, he said,

"Yes, war is always cruel. Every decision we make will determine the fate of countless lives. But this is also the duty of shinobi—to protect those we cherish and prevent more innocent people from being caught in this bloodshed."

Tsunade looked at him, her eyes softening with gratitude.

"You're right, Tsukiko. As commanders, we bear a great responsibility. That's why we must be as careful as possible, reducing unnecessary casualties as much as we can."

Tsukiko suddenly smiled as an idea came to him.

"Tsunade, I've recently mastered the Flying Thunder God Technique. It allows me to instantly teleport to any marked location. To ensure your safety, I'd like to place a Flying Thunder God seal on you. That way, if you ever face danger, I can be there immediately."

Tsunade felt a warmth spread through her chest, and she nodded.

"Of course, Tsukiko. Having that seal will definitely make me feel safer."

Tsukiko extended his hand, a soft chakra glow forming at his fingertips before he gently imprinted a "正" (justice) symbol onto her waist.

The mark shimmered faintly before seamlessly merging into her skin.

Tsunade looked down at the mark, slightly puzzled.

"This '正' symbol… what does it mean?"

Tsukiko chuckled.

"It's my unique Flying Thunder God seal. It represents justice—the guiding principle I follow. You can consider it a symbol of protection, always watching over you."

Tsunade couldn't help but laugh softly.

The anxiety in her heart faded, replaced by a sense of trust and warmth.

She glanced at Tsukiko, her gaze gentle.

"Thank you, Tsukiko. With this, I truly feel much safer."

To further demonstrate the power of the Flying Thunder God Technique, Tsukiko disappeared instantly, reappearing beside Tsunade in a blink.

Then, grabbing her wrist, he teleported both of them a few meters away, showcasing his refined mastery of the technique.

Tsunade was astonished.

"Tobirama-sama's Flying Thunder God truly is incredible. I once tried to learn it, but it was far too difficult. I can't believe you actually mastered it."

Tsukiko nodded.

"Not only did I master it, but I also improved it. Now, if you inject chakra into the seal, I will immediately sense your location. If you ever need me, just activate the mark, and I'll be there."

Tsunade's eyes filled with emotion.

"You're truly amazing, Tsukiko. Thank you… for everything."

Tsukiko simply shook his head with a smile.

"No need to thank me, Tsunade. You're someone I care about—I'll always protect you."

Under the moonlight, the two walked side by side, their hearts lighter despite the looming war.

The shadow of battle hung over the horizon, but they knew that as long as they stood together, they could overcome any challenge.

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