CH - 73 Third World War

The Third Great Ninja War had begun! The shocking news of the Third Kazekage's disappearance, known as the strongest Kazekage, sent ripples of tension throughout the entire ninja world.

The possibility of war loomed large, and soon enough, the Hidden Cloud Village seized the opportunity presented by the Kazekage's disappearance and launched an attack on the Hidden Sand Village. Despite the surprise assault, the Sand Village responded swiftly, organizing their defenses and repelling the invasion.

However, amidst this intense battle, the Hidden Cloud Village suddenly shifted their focus to the Leaf Village, instigating an all-out war against them. Shortly after, the Sand Village also joined the fray, using the pretext of seeking revenge for the Third Kazekage's vanishing act as their justification.

With this sudden escalation of hostilities, the three major ninja villages were plunged into chaos, marking the beginning of the Third Great Ninja War.

In the Land of Grass, upon learning about the Third Kazekage's disappearance, Akihiko, the leader of the Grass Village, took swift action and placed the nation on high alert. Despite the prevailing sense of unease among the shinobi, Akihiko's capable leadership managed to quell initial panic, reassuring the people that the war had not yet reached their land.

Over the years, the Grass Shinobi's reputation remained unfavorable in the outside world. However, within the Land of Grass, they had gained the trust of their people, largely thanks to Akihiko's efforts in resolving internal conflicts and rebuilding the nation.

Inside the meeting room of the Grass Shinobi Village, all eyes were fixed solemnly on their leader occupying the head position.

Finally, the war had arrived, and though it had not yet breached their borders, an air of unease gripped the hearts of everyone present. The magnitude of this war could potentially engulf the entire ninja world.

Kana's serious expression conveyed the gravity of the situation as she continued, "Having experienced wars in the past, we understand the critical importance of food. Our food reserves are indeed in excellent shape. We've been preparing meticulously since before the war, and the implementation of advanced scientific ninja farming tools has resulted in a bountiful harvest in The Land of Grass."

She paused, looking at the data in her hands, and then continued, "Based on the statistics and projections, even if we were to completely open the food supply within the Land of Grass right now, it could sustain us for three years."

Her words brought a collective sigh of relief to those present. The significance of ample food reserves during wartime couldn't be overstated. The Grass Village had taken proactive measures, and their preparation would be vital in ensuring the well-being and resilience of their people in the uncertain times ahead.

Having experienced wars in the past, they understood the crucial importance of food. The neighboring Land of Rain served as a grim reminder, where countless people had suffered due to food shortages. Similarly, the Land of Whirlpool had endured hardships during their escape, with many Uzushiogakure ninjas experiencing hunger and deprivation, leading to their hair turning white from excessive chakra consumption and insufficient nourishment.

The Uzumaki Clan, known for their long lifespans and red hair, also faced the consequences of food scarcity. Delayed replenishment of food and chakra could lead to their lives slowly fading away. Yoshinori Uzumaki, for instance, had experienced grayish-white hair due to food shortage and extensive chakra consumption during severe injuries. Over the years of recovery and proper nourishment, his hair gradually regained its red hue, assuring him of a healthier and longer life ahead.

For both ninjas and ordinary people, the importance of food could not be overstated. It was a fundamental necessity for survival and well-being.

"The Guard Department has been arranged as requested. Though the number of guards in each area is not large, we will do our utmost to protect The Land of Grass, no matter the dangers that may arise," said Takeshi, the head of the Grass Shinobi Village Guard Department, with a serious expression.

"The Research Institute is putting in its utmost effort to produce scientific ninja tools," added Yoshinori, also adopting a serious tone. "Thanks to the 'Literacy' campaign proposed by the leader some time ago, many workers can now take over the roles left by the departing ninjas!"

His words revealed how the 'Literacy' campaign not only relieved production pressure but also allowed for a smooth transition of responsibilities within the village.

After Yoshinori finished speaking, Ryuushikei chimed in, "The Medical Department has made significant strides over the years, thanks to the allocation of resources and development in the Grass Shinobi Village. Though we may not compare to Konoha's level yet, I believe that once war breaks out, we will be of great help!"

The development of the Grass Shinobi Village's medical department had been a concerted effort led by Kana and Ryuushikei, with Akihiko occasionally offering suggestions and assistance. Now, their hard work and dedication were starting to bear fruit, boosting their confidence in facing the challenges ahead.

"Very good" Akihiko nodded, acknowledging the reports from the various departments. However, he seemed to intentionally overlook Mubuki, who was eagerly waiting to say something.

Akihiko smiled at everyone, expressing his satisfaction with their hard work during these challenging times. "It seems like everyone has been working diligently"

"Leader! Leader! I haven't said anything yet!" Mubuki interjected, trying to get Akihiko's attention.

But Akihiko carried on speaking, seemingly oblivious to Mubuki's attempts to speak up. "I believe that with everyone working together, there is no difficulty that can stop us, the Grass Shinobi Village!"

Mubuki tried once more to attract attention, "Leader, it's me! Your comrade Mubuki. During this time of war, we can use our Grass Shinobi Village to trade information..."

Before he could finish his sentence, Akihiko moved on, smiling at everyone, and asked if there was anything else they wanted to share.

"I..." Mubuki tried once more, raising his hand in an attempt to get everyone's attention. However, just as he was about to speak, Yoshinori interrupted him again.

"Oh, that's right!" Yoshinori suddenly remembered something and spoke up with a smile. "It's time for the first batch of students to graduate from the academy"

The news of the first batch of graduates from the Grass Shinobi Village's academy brought smiles to everyone's faces. It was a significant milestone for the Land of Grass, as children represented the future of a shinobi village. Besides, the leader had emphasized before that children were the future of a shinobi village, which made everyone pay close attention to the academy graduates.

"I almost forgot, indeed it's time for them to graduate" Akihiko sighed, then looked at Yoshinori with a serious tone. "But let's remember, we shouldn't burden the children with thoughts of the war. One or two freshly graduated students can't possibly impact the current situation in the Land of Grass. Let them focus on completing their studies"

As Akihiko finished speaking, Yoshinori nodded earnestly, realizing the importance of not burdening the students with the troubles of war. "Indeed, it shouldn't affect the student's studies"

Seeing their leader's concern for the children's well-being, the others present couldn't help but feel admiration for Akihiko's compassionate leadership. Even in the face of war, he prioritized the education and safety of the younger generation, unlike some villages that rushed their young shinobi into the battlefield.

"I will personally keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't affect the children!" Yoshinori assured Akihiko.

"It's a crucial matter. Thank you! Now, if there's nothing else, then..." Akihiko's words were interrupted as Kana awkwardly raised her hand and spoke up, "There's one more thing. We received a message from Konoha again, urging us to pay attention to the movements of Iwagakure."

Akihiko was taken aback, "Didn't Mubuki assure them that there was no problem? Can't they trust us?"

"It's not that! This time..." Kana hesitated for a moment and continued, "Konoha is also asking us to help resist the attacks from Sunagakure and safeguard the peace of the ninja world together"

Akihiko's expression turned perplexed, taken aback by Konoha's unexpected request.

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