Troop Buildup

---

Senju Tobirama stood by the window, holding a letter from Shinobi. The gravity of the situation became clear as he read the message: Kumo Ninja had launched an unexpected assault. Immediately, he summoned the Shinobi clan heads and Jōnin in the village for an urgent strategy meeting.

The news was startling. The rapid invasion by the Land of Lightning had caught everyone off guard. Despite his earlier predictions, Fumori Masaki hadn't anticipated such a swift move. The Land of Fire was under threat, and every moment counted.

Within minutes, the upper ninjas gathered in the meeting room, their expressions a mix of concern and anticipation. The urgency of the situation was evident; this was no ordinary meeting.

Tobirama turned to address the assembled ninjas. "We've just received word from our Anbu team that the Hidden Cloud Village forces have launched a surprise attack. The northern frontier army was overwhelmed, and the enemy has breached our defenses. They are advancing rapidly into our territory and are requesting immediate support."

The room erupted in murmurs of surprise and worry. The northern frontier army, traditionally a stronghold against invasions, had been caught off-guard, and now the Hidden Cloud's troops were deep inside the country.

Tobirama continued, "We cannot afford to delay. We must mobilize our forces immediately to counter this threat. Allowing Hidden Cloud Ninja Village to continue unchecked could result in catastrophic losses. Our priority is to halt their advance and protect the core of our nation."

A voice from the crowd asked, "With limited information and manpower, where should we focus our defense efforts?"

Tobirama gestured to a map of the Fire Country. "Kumo's strategy is likely to involve rapid, multi-pronged attacks. We anticipate they may target several locations simultaneously to maximize their impact. We must be prepared to defend multiple fronts."

He then turned to Masato Hyūga, a respected leader of the Hyūga clan. "Masato, the Hyūga family will play a crucial role in this. We need your expertise in reconnaissance to track Kumo's movements and relay critical information."

Masato Hyuga nodded in agreement. "The Hyūga clan will assist in gathering intelligence and supporting the defense efforts."

"Good," Tobirama said. "We will organize four main units for this operation:"

1. Tobirama's Unit: This unit, led by Tobirama, will focus on defending the largest city, which is a prime target for Kumo's forces. It will be primarily composed of ninjas from the Senju clan.

2. Sarutobi Sasuke's Unit: Led by Sarutobi Sasuke, this group will include ninjas from the Sarutobi, Shimura, and Ino-Shika-Cho clans, providing vital support to the main defense.

3. Senju Tōka's Unit: This team will consist of various smaller clans with specialized ninjutsu. Their role will be to delay and disrupt the enemy's advance rather than engage in direct combat.

4. Masato Hyuga's Unit: Tasked with reconnaissance and support, this unit will include the Hyuga, Aburame, and Inuzuka clans, focusing on intelligence and strategic support.

As the plans were laid out, Masaki and Rimi prepared to mobilize. Despite the imminent danger, Rimi's resolve was unshakable. "I will not let these invaders harm our village," she declared with determination.

Masaki smiled, reassured by her confidence. "We'll face this challenge together."

The four units quickly assembled, each briefed on their specific roles and responsibilities. Masaki and Danzo, now paired in the same unit, would engage in close combat. They understood the significance of their mission and the urgency of their departure.

As the troops prepared to leave Konoha, Uchiha Kagami watched from the village, unable to participate due to his duties. He could only hope for a swift and successful outcome.

With the ninja forces on the move, a sense of urgency hanging in the air as they headed into the unknown to defend their homeland.

---