Meanwhile, all the Jonin present were deeply shocked after hearing Shiyu Uchiha's powerful speech. Not only were they astonished by the tensions between the Uchiha Clan and the Hokage Faction, but they also felt deep awe toward the extraordinary foresight Shiyu had displayed.
Among them were even the legendary Sannin, especially Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi. Their silence in response to Shiyu's statements—offering no rebuttal—seemed to affirm his words as indisputable truth.
Inuzuka Rō, the carefully groomed heir of the Inuzuka Clan, was indeed an exceptionally capable individual. Furthermore, he always acted with caution and had never committed any faults, which naturally made the clan reluctant to lose such a promising young leader.
The aging head of the Inuzuka Clan had already nearly given up hope, but when he witnessed this rare opportunity, a surge of strong hope filled his heart. Hurrying forward with a beaming smile, he eagerly followed up on Shiyu's words by saying, "Lord Third, what do you say about recalling Rō and his team back to our village in time?
They could then be sent to the Land of Earth to confront those stubborn Iwa-nin, giving them the chance to contribute their efforts for Konoha Village. Remember, he is truly a man who carries within him that burning Will of Fire. He deserves to give his last drop of blood on this battlefield, proving his loyalty and love for Konoha."
At this moment, the entire atmosphere seemed to grow heavy because of Inuzuka Rō's words. Everyone's eyes unconsciously turned toward Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi and Shiyu Uchiha, as if waiting for their final decision.
Although the elder Inuzuka clan leader knew full well that speaking so bluntly would most certainly anger the mighty Hiruzen Sarutobi,
at that moment, driven by the duty of a clan leader, he cast aside any possible consequences. His mind was focused on one thought alone: he had to spare no effort in protecting this most outstanding young successor within the clan. Everything else could wait.
After all, the Inuzuka was not a large or prominent clan. Possessing such an exceptional heir—someone with the potential to become its next leader—was like holding onto a priceless treasure. This was the seed that carried the future prosperity of the Inuzuka Clan, something absolutely irreplaceable.
Hiruzen quickly stood, cutting off Shiyu before he could continue, saying, "I am currently investigating the issues regarding Root and Anbu, but since war has broken out and manpower is tight, it will require some time.
As for the matter of Inuzuka Rō, perhaps we should let him return to the village for a while to rest and recuperate. You're right—even if he hasn't earned great achievements, he's certainly endured great hardship. There's truly no reason to punish him. What do you all think?"
Inuzuka Rō's issue, Sarutobi Hiruzen seemingly made a concession, claiming that he should return to the village for a while to rest and recover. He also emphasized that although Rō hadn't achieved major accomplishments, he had still earned some credit and shouldn't face harsh punishment.
However, this approach contained his habitual method of vague handling, attempting to downplay significant issues into minor ones, then dismiss those altogether. Were he dealing with political rivals, he might adopt precisely the opposite strategy, exploiting such ambiguity to achieve his own political ends.
Shiyu Uchiha stood silently in place, his gaze clouded with thought, but ultimately chose to remain silent. He deeply understood that the Third Great Ninja War was about to break out in full, so it was crucial to maintain room for maneuver and avoid decisive actions at this moment.
Similarly, as Konoha Village's leader, Hiruzen carried the entire village's safety and overarching situation on his shoulders. Shiyu realized the other party needed to balance various factors—so long as the Uchiha didn't turn hostile, neither could he indulge only temporary satisfaction.
Therefore, he tightly pressed his lips together, burying his thoughts deep inside, silently waiting for the situation to further develop.
After the meeting ended, the Inuzuka clan leader approached Shiyu Uchiha with deep gratitude, bowing low before solemnly expressing his willingness to pledge allegiance. His expression serious, he said earnestly, "Lord, our Inuzuka clan has long desired to find a powerful ally during this war to ensure our family's security and honor.
After careful consideration, we have determined that the Uchiha clan is precisely the alliance we seek. You possess unparalleled strength and wisdom capable of leading us toward victory. Furthermore, your personal support just now deeply moved me.
This kindness will forever be remembered by the Inuzuka clan, and we vow to serve like faithful hounds." Nodding slightly, Shiyu's eyes revealed a trace of gratification. Just now, he sensed this was a crucial opportunity—one he had gambled on to secure another ally for his clan, essentially risking nothing. Evidently, the outcome turned out quite well.
They exchanged knowing looks, both sharing the same goal in their hearts. Subsequently, they agreed to schedule a detailed discussion to jointly plan future strategies.
As the Inuzuka clan leader conversed with Shiyu Uchiha, Orochimaru, under constant urging from Hiruzen Sarutobi, rode off hastily atop a giant snake with an advance unit, departing under the cover of nightfall. These vanguard warriors marched spiritedly, determination burning brightly in their eyes.
They all clearly recognized the critical importance of this mission—they must reach the battlefield swiftly to seize the initial advantage for Konoha Village. Riding atop his massive serpent, Orochimaru maintained a cold demeanor, piercing gaze fixed firmly ahead. Calculations stirred within his mind—he would fully demonstrate his prowess on this battlefield and prove his worth.
The remaining forces completed their assembly within two short days, lining up neatly within the camp like an army of iron warriors. Standing at the forefront, Tsunade appeared particularly valiant and striking.
Under her command, they marched triumphantly toward the battlefield, spirits high and steps steady. Meanwhile, Tsunade's medical team followed closely behind, carrying various medical instruments, professional smiles gracing their faces.
These medics were all elite members carefully selected by Tsunade. They possessed superb medical skills and unyielding willpower, and would provide timely aid to wounded teammates on the battlefield.
When this formidable team arrived at the battlefield, it sent shockwaves through the area. The Sand-nin's reconnaissance unit looked upon the Konoha ninja pouring in like a tidal wave, and an involuntary sense of fear surged within their hearts. They knew full well that Konoha Village was not a force to be taken lightly—and this time, they might be facing a true trial.
In stark contrast to the Sand-nin's reaction, the Leaf ninja were filled with high morale. Gazing at the distant enemy encampment, flames of determination blazed in their eyes, as though ready to reduce their foes to ash. At this moment, everyone was fully prepared to welcome the fierce battle that was about to erupt.
<><><><><><><><>
Thank you for reading! Your support will keep me updating!
~ Every 50 Powerstones = **4 Bonus Chapters** this weekend!
<><><><><><><><>
Want to read the subsequent content in advance?
Please follow my Patreon:patreon/Tansnovel
Tans Novel - The Fastest-Updating Naruto Fanfiction Account
Read 100+ chapters in advance, with at least 3 new chapters updated every day! More free chapters! 20+ Naruto fanfictions!
Just three steps:
1. Download and open the "Patreon" app
2. Search for "Tans Novel"
3. Click on the collection and enjoy to your heart's content
<><><><><><><><>