The Looming War

In the conference room of the Hokage's office, the Third Hokage, Jiraiya, Orochimaru, the two advisers, Danzo, and all the heads of the clans were gathered.

"Everyone, Jiraiya has brought us news from the Sand Village. The Third Kazekage has disappeared near the borders of the Fire Land. The Sand is now using this as an excuse to invade our land," the Third Hokage announced, his face showing the weight of the situation.

He knew that if they went to war with the Sand, it wouldn't just be them as enemies. It would likely escalate into an all-out war between all the villages, just like before. The memories of the horrific consequences of the two previous wars loomed in his mind.

Konoha, the hidden village of the Fire Land, strategically linked the north to the south. Its ecological environment was the best among the five major Villages, suitable for growing crops and living. With its location, environment, and powerful hidden village, the Fire Land was the strongest in the world.

Such a prosperous Land naturally attracted the eyes of its neighbors, who craved its land and resources. In Hashirama's era, he and Uchiha Madara were strong enough to dominate the ninja world. But after their battle in the Valley of the End and Madara's presumed death, Hashirama soon followed. This loss removed Konoha's obvious edge, leading to the eruption of the First World War over those resources.

During the First World War, Tobirama Senju was Hokage. Despite the lingering tension between the Uchiha and Senju clans, Konoha managed to outpressure the other four villages, though it suffered many losses. The five nations eventually signed a peace treaty, allowing them to catch their breath.

After the treaty, Hiruzen Sarutobi became Hokage, having the position passed to him by Tobirama, who died in the war. For twenty years, Hiruzen carefully managed and developed the village, bringing peace and prosperity.

Then came the Second World War. Konoha, at its peak, had the likes of the legendary Sannin, the White Fang Sakumo Hatake, and Dan Kato among its ranks. These outstanding ninjas led Konoha to victory by the war's end.

"Hokage-sama, Hiruzen!" Homura Mitokado's voice interrupted the Third Hokage's thoughts.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I was lost in thought. The meeting continues. As I mentioned, the Sand Village is about to make its move. What do you all think?" the Third Hokage asked, bringing his focus back to the present.

"Sarutobi-sensei, the Sand ninja should get special attention because of their unorthodox methods and their use of poisons," Jiraiya said.

"That's true. During the Second World War, even with Tsunade, many of our ninjas fell victim to the Sand's poisons. Today, we don't have her in our ranks anymore. These poisons will pose a much more serious problem," Koharu Utatane added.

"Moreover, Konoha's medical ninjas were always led by Tsunade. Now that she's gone, the deployment of our medical troops will also be a problem," Homura chimed in.

Jiraiya nodded in agreement. "The Sand's poisons are lethal, and without Tsunade, our medics are at a significant disadvantage. We need to find a way to counteract their tactics."

No one in the room mentioned calling back Tsunade as they all knew the state she was in. Due to the death of her loved ones, she had developed a fear of blood, rendering her paralyzed at the sight of it. A medical ninja who was afraid of blood was essentially useless.

Orochimaru, who had been silent until now, spoke up. "We should also consider their puppet masters. They use their puppets to deliver poison and control the battlefield. If we can neutralize the puppet masters, we might reduce their effectiveness."

"I guess you're all forgetting something," Danzo spoke up after seeing no one addressing a critical issue. "If we really enter war with the Sand Village, then the other villages wouldn't sit idly by. They will try to fish for trouble and might even join the war against us."

As an experienced commander, Danzo knew the intricacies of warfare better than most. "The other villages have been looking for an opportunity to weaken us. If we engage with the Sand, we need to be prepared for a multi-front conflict. We can't afford to be caught off guard."

The room fell silent as everyone considered Danzo's words. The reality of the situation was daunting, but they couldn't let worry dictate their actions.

The Third Hokage nodded solemnly. "You're right, Danzo. We must be vigilant. We need to fortify our borders and increase our intelligence efforts in the neighboring lands. Any sign of movement from the other villages must be reported immediately."

"Our focus should be on gathering intelligence. We need to know their movements, strategies, and numbers. Only then can we plan an effective counterattack," Danzo added.

The Third Hokage nodded, his mind already racing with strategies. "Jiraiya, I want you to take charge of our reconnaissance efforts. Gather as much information as you can about the Sand's movements."

"Understood, Sensei," Jiraiya replied, his tone serious.

"Koharu, Homura, we need to strengthen our medical corps. Find and train as many medics as possible. We may not have Tsunade, but we need to be prepared."

"Of course, Hiruzen," Koharu said. "We'll start immediately."

"Orochimaru, work on developing countermeasures for the Sand's poisons and puppet techniques. Your expertise will be crucial."

"Consider it done," Orochimaru responded, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

"Danzo, you…"

Before Hiruzen could finish his words, Danzo interrupted him.

"I'll be responsible for gathering intelligence. I have a few spies in high positions in the other villages who can inform me when they plan to attack." Danzo already knew his role in the upcoming war, but he didn't want to stay in the shadows. He planned to earn some merits in addition to assisting Orochimaru in leading the war so that when he became the Hokage, he wouldn't face much resistance.

Hiruzen briefly narrowed his eyes at Danzo, but in the end, he didn't say anything. The war was about to start, and it wasn't worth falling out with Danzo over a civilian ninja, no matter how skilled. His role wasn't as important as Danzo's.

As the meeting continued, the clan heads discussed their concerns and offered suggestions. Each of them knew the stakes were high and that they would undeniably participate in the conflict. War was looming, and Konoha had to be ready.

***

Next Chapter, Yami will be dispatched to the battlefield.

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