Chapter 119

— According to the scouts' reports, the concentration of shinobi is very low for about half a day's journey, — Ikki-san pointed to our location on the map and showed where it is most convenient to infiltrate into the enemy territory. — Since most of Iwagakure no Sato's military forces have been destroyed, and the remaining forces are concentrated on opposing our main forces, the number of patrols increases only in the most populated areas or around major cities. Such as the ones closest to us, Hankai and Tumeru. Considering that the known courier route is beyond these, you will need to navigate around the dangerous terrain with a large detour. Preferably, through one of these canyons.

Tracing the approximate detour path around the lightly shaded areas on the map around the squares of the named cities, about two days' journey from us, he tapped the paper where the mountainous terrain was marked. Since most of the terrain is rocky, this is how mountains over twenty meters high are marked. Mainly because higher mountains are even more difficult for shinobi to cross than simply going around.

— Since there are no cities, not even the most run-down villages due to the complete lack of fertile soil, the chances of encountering observation posts or alert stations are minimal.

— What about mines? — I asked.

Although the Land of Earth lacks agriculture, its mining industry is quite developed. While the numerous mines only yield a limited range of metals (iron, copper, silver, gold) used by chakra users, the problem of detecting them is resolved much more easily with Doton users than with various equipment in my past world. Therefore, developing mines can be located anywhere, even in the wildest areas, if they turn out to be rich in ore — shinobi are much more adept at traversing than ordinary people and can carry tons of monthly output in a single small scroll.

— There are none there either, which is to our advantage, — Meido grinned, — After crossing this terrain, you will find yourselves relatively close to the courier route, but you'll have to make your way through more populated areas. Although there are no large cities nearby, the relatively fertile land is suitable for growing grains, so you might come across a few peasant villages and even a daimyo's governor's estate. Their exact locations are unknown, as is the presence of Iwagakure shinobi in those areas, so you will need to act according to the circumstances. This includes deciding where to set up an ambush.

— What about the retreat? — Tsume spoke up, focusing on the map.

— It's best if you retrace your steps, as this is the safest route for a quick withdrawal to our territory in case of unexpected events. Even if a pursuit is organized, you only need to be slightly faster. Just in case, I will send two teams of jounin to this point in five days.

The commander pointed to an area not far from the protected territory where the current front line had been pushed back from our side.

— So even if someone is on your heels, with reinforcements, you'll have the chance to set up an ambush for the pursuers rather than trying to outrun them until you cross to our side. But try not to engage in battles, especially in populated areas, as there are postal birds everywhere, and detection will only be a matter of time.

— So it's better for us to avoid any settlements in enemy territory altogether? — I raised an eyebrow questioningly.

— Considering that among you four, only Rotaro-kun can pass for a local — it's preferable, — the commander sighed, — but I understand that this is somewhat impractical, so I have prepared something for such a case.

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