Arrive at the Command Site

The third unit quickly advanced to join the rest of the forces on the battlefield. On their way, Senju Tōka received a letter from a ninja eagle. After a swift glance, she informed the others, "The battle between the first and second units has concluded. We've managed to repel the Kumo ninjas and force them into retreat."

Everyone's spirits lifted upon hearing the news, celebrating the apparent success of their mission. However, Senju Tōka tempered their enthusiasm with a somber note. "Don't be too quick to rejoice. The Kumo Ninjas aren't retreating back to the Land of Lightning. The towns they previously captured have been fortified and are now being used as strongholds. Despite our victory, the second generation of Kumo's ninjas has endured significant losses and needs to regroup."

Danzo, ever pragmatic, inquired, "Does this mean we're looking at a prolonged war?"

"That's precisely what it implies," Senju Tōka confirmed. "Neither side has immediate plans for an offensive, but we should prepare for a drawn-out conflict."

The third unit set off once more, navigating treacherous terrain that larger forces couldn't traverse. Utilizing their unique abilities, they took a shortcut and soon arrived at the enemy's command site.

"Over there, that's the location," Hyūga Kei pointed out to Senju Tōka.

As they approached, the sight of a well-established camp became clear. This camp would serve as the operational headquarters for Konoha's ninjas. A small team emerged from the camp to meet the third unit. They were members of the Senju clan, who greeted Senju Tōka respectfully.

"Welcome back, Tōka Taichō," one of them said. "You're familiar with the protocol, I trust?"

Senju Tōka nodded. While ninja techniques could be deceptive, they were familiar with the necessary verification processes.

The third unit followed the Senju members into the camp. The camp was a model of military organization, with Konoha ninjas diligently performing their duties. Senju Tōka ordered her unit to rest and proceeded to report to Hokage.

Inside his camp, Nidaime Hokage scrutinized a map pinned to the wall, making occasional annotations. Despite his experience with large-scale battles alongside Hashirama, he remained calm, focused on strategizing with the samurai to reclaim lost ground.

When Senju Tōka arrived to report, Tobirama welcomed her and listened intently. The news of the third unit's losses was a cause for concern, but the survival of Senju Tōka, Fumori Masaki, and Danzo was a relief.

"I'm pleased to see you all returned safely," Tobirama said, appreciating their resilience. "However, the extent of the losses is troubling. We must find a way to avoid such high casualties in future engagements."

Senju Tōka reviewed the casualty report and was taken aback. The first and second units, consisting of 600 ninjas, had suffered over 200 deaths and 100 injuries. The Senju clan alone had incurred more than half of these losses. Had the first Raikage not been injured, the toll might have been even greater.

"The current method of engagement isn't sustainable," Tobirama observed. "We need alternative strategies to minimize our losses."

Senju Tōka asked, "What do you propose?"

"We've captured several Kumo ninjas," Tobirama explained. "We can interrogate them for intelligence and use them as leverage for peace negotiations."

In past conflicts, total annihilation was the norm, but capturing prisoners for information or bargaining was becoming more common. The Senju clan had previously dealt with similar situations, as seen in their dealings with the Uchiha clan.

"Peace negotiations?" Senju Tōka mused. "Given our losses, it makes sense to seek a resolution. But Kumo is known for their fierce resolve. Will they be willing to negotiate?"

Second Hokage nodded. "We need to capture high-ranking ninjas if possible. They hold the key to negotiations. If it proves impossible, we must focus on self-preservation and tell our subordinates accordingly."

"I understand," Senju Tōka affirmed.

"Since you're back, I'll be holding a strategy meeting tonight to discuss our next steps," Tobirama concluded. "You should get some rest."

"Yes, Hokage-sama," Senju Tōka replied and left the camp.

As Fumori Masaki and Rimi settled into their camp, they ran into Sarutobi Hiruzen and his team. Hiruzen, delighted to see Masaki and Danzo return safely, expressed his relief.

"During battle, I couldn't keep track of everyone's situation. Distraction could mean death," Sarutobi Hiruzen said, acknowledging the severity of their ordeal.

"I'm glad to see you too," Fumori Masaki responded sincerely, appreciating the camaraderie.

The shared experience of the battlefield forged a strong bond among them, a testament to their resilience and unity in the face of adversity.