The decision to transport the chakra metal under the guise of ordinary goods was carefully debated in the Sarutobi council. The clan was no stranger to the dangers of moving such a valuable resource, especially during a time when every clan sought an advantage. To minimize suspicion, the cargo was concealed within crates of mundane supplies—grains, tools, and textiles. The convoy consisted of six chunin tasked with ensuring its safe passage. Unbeknownst to them, the real treasure was hidden amongst their burdens.
To further safeguard the shipment, the clan assigned an elite team of three jonin to shadow the convoy. These seasoned warriors were to remain hidden, intervening only if absolutely necessary. It was a calculated risk—protecting the chakra metal without drawing undue attention.
However, the Sarutobi leadership's precautions failed to account for betrayal from within their supply chain. The supplier of the chakra metal, a man burdened by debts and driven by greed, had sold information about the convoy's contents and route. For a hefty bribe, he divulged the details to Shimura operatives.
Shimura Raiden, a tactician with a reputation for exploiting any opportunity, immediately recognized the value of the intel. The Shimura clan had long been rivals of the Sarutobi, and this was a chance to strike a decisive blow. Yet Raiden knew the risk of direct confrontation. To tip the scales in his favor, he sought an alliance with Kaien of the Fuki clan.
The meeting between Raiden and Kaien took place in a secluded forest clearing under the cover of night. A map lay spread between them, illuminated by the flickering light of a lantern.
"The convoy is lightly guarded," Raiden explained, his voice calm and measured. "Six chunin. The Sarutobi are likely hiding stronger forces nearby, but we can flush them out."
Kaien studied the map, his expression guarded. "And you propose using bandits for the first strike?"
Raiden nodded. "Precisely. The bandits attack the convoy, forcing the Sarutobi's hidden defenders to reveal themselves. Once they're exposed, we strike."
Kaien tapped a finger on the map, his sharp eyes fixed on Raiden. "And when the dust settles? Who claims the spoils?"
"We split it evenly," Raiden replied smoothly, though his tone carried a hint of insincerity.
Kaien didn't trust Raiden, and Raiden knew it. The Shimura and Fuki clans had always been opportunistic, and alliances were temporary at best. Both men saw this partnership as a means to an end, fully intending to betray the other when the time came.
The conversation concluded with a handshake, neither man believing in the other's word.
---
The bandit group assembled for the task was a chaotic mix of thugs, mercenaries, and rogue ninja. Fifty men in total, they were led by Goro, a scarred and ruthless brute who had once been a shinobi before turning to a life of crime. Among his ranks were four chunin and seven genin—wandering ninja who had abandoned their clans.
Goro stood before his men, his gravelly voice carrying over the din of clinking weapons and hushed conversations. "Listen up! This isn't just any raid. We hit the convoy fast and hard, take what we can, and get out. No lingering, no mistakes."
The men grunted their assent, their eyes gleaming with greed.
The rogue ninja among them were more calculating, their expressions betraying a hunger for blood and glory. They were the wild cards of the operation, their limited ninjutsu skills making them deadly in close combat.
Goro turned to a smaller group of his men, including the rogue ninja. "You'll stay back for the second wave. Let the first group test their defenses. When the time comes, you'll hit them where it hurts."
The bandits dispersed, preparing for the ambush. Weapons were sharpened, strategies whispered, and adrenaline coursed through their veins.
---
Raiden and Kaien watched from a hidden vantage point as the bandits finalized their preparations.
"They'll do their part," Raiden remarked, his tone indifferent. "Cannon fodder has its uses."
Kaien chuckled darkly. "And when they're done? We swoop in and claim the real prize."
Raiden didn't respond. His sharp eyes were fixed on the horizon, where the Sarutobi convoy would soon appear.
In the forest below, the bandits melted into the shadows, their weapons gleaming faintly in the moonlight. They were ready.
The ambush was set. The stage was prepared. The wheels of treachery had been set in motion, and the convoy was none the wiser.