Chapter 34

In the current situation, Iwagakure has positioned itself less than 200 miles from Konoha. This proximity means that the enemy could potentially reach the village within a day and night, putting them right at Konoha's doorstep.

Faced with this imminent threat, Sarutobi Hiruzen could no longer remain passive. He immediately ordered Jiraiya, stationed in the northeast, to lead an elite force of over 100 shinobi to the northwest battlefield and take over Yusuke's command.

At Yusuke's military camp, the atmosphere was tense. Uchiha Fugaku, Hinata Hinata, and others were anxious. With Iwagakure so close, retreating was no longer an option. If the enemy broke through, it would be catastrophic for Konoha.

"Yusuke-sama, we can't afford to retreat any further," Hiashi Hyuga said urgently. "If we pull back again, the consequences could be dire."

At that moment, an intelligence ninja rushed in and delivered a small scroll to Yusuke. "This is the latest update from Konoha."

Yusuke opened the scroll, glanced at it, and then tossed it into the campfire with a sneer. "It seems Hokage-sama has decided to send Jiraiya-sama from the northeast battlefield to replace me."

Everyone was taken aback. With Iwagakure already at their doorstep, it was inevitable that Hokage-sama would make such a decision.

Yusuke, however, was unfazed. "What do you think Iwagakure will do when they learn that Jiraiya is coming with reinforcements?"

The camp fell silent as Hiashi Hyuga, Fugaku Uchiha, and others considered Yusuke's question.

After a moment, Uchiha Fugaku spoke up. "They will likely try to push through our defenses before Jiraiya-sama arrives."

"I agree," Hiashi added. "If they know Jiraiya is coming, they'll be motivated to strike harder and faster."

"Then it's even better if they know about Jiraiya's reinforcements," Yusuke said with a grin. "If they're aware, they'll likely concentrate their forces on attacking us. That will leave Onoki and his contingent more vulnerable."

Yusuke pointed to the map behind him, indicating Iwagakure's current position within the Fire Country. "With most of their forces focused on the front, how many troops will be left to guard Onoki?"

The realization hit everyone in the camp. Yusuke's plan was to use the enemy's focus on the front lines to launch a decisive strike against Onoki.

"Even if Iwagakure manages to breach our defenses, their unfamiliarity with the terrain inside the Fire Country will be a disadvantage. We'll have a chance to strike at Onoki while they're preoccupied," Yusuke explained.

Hiashi was stunned. "So, you've been retreating to lure Iwa closer to Konoha and set up this opportunity?"

The camp buzzed with shock at Yusuke's bold strategy.

"Uchiha Fugaku," Yusuke called out.

"Yes, Yusuke-sama?" Fugaku responded.

"Prepare your forces to hold the line against Iwagakure's next assault. Your main task is to buy time until Jiraiya-sama arrives," Yusuke instructed.

Fugaku nodded. "Understood."

"And Hiashi," Yusuke continued, "select the ten strongest members of your clan. We're going to follow Iwagakure's trail and strike at Onoki directly."

Hiashi Hyuga acknowledged the order with a serious expression. "I will gather them immediately."

As Hiashi and Fugaku set about their tasks, Yusuke's plan took shape. With the enemy's focus diverted and their rear unprotected, the stage was set for a decisive and high-stakes confrontation.