Chapter 19: Ch 19. On the eve of the raid: Preperation & Entering
After a grueling journey from the Land of Hot Springs, Dodai and his team stood at the northwestern shore of the Land of Uzumaki. The waves lapped softly against the rugged coastline, and the faint scent of salt lingered in the cool breeze. The atmosphere was deceptively calm, a stark contrast to the storm of war that was set to descend in just one week.
Dodai surveyed the area, his sharp eyes scanning the cliffs and dense forest that bordered the coastline. "We have seven days," he said, addressing his team, "before the others arrive. Until then, we prepare in silence."
The mission ahead was clear, but for now, they had two pressing priorities; staying hidden and ensuring an efficient retreat when the operation concluded. The latter task, Dodai knew, would require careful preparation.
Turning to the earth-style ninjas in the group, Dodai gave his orders. "We need to set up an artificial harbor. Use the resources around us stones, earth, and anything that can reinforce the structure. It needs to be sturdy enough to withstand the tides and discreet enough to avoid detection. This will be our escape route when the time comes."
The shinobi nodded, already forming hand signs in preparation. Their chakra would shape the surrounding terrain into a harbor capable of housing their upcoming retreat vessels.
Meanwhile, the rest of the team began scouting the area. They moved like shadows, blending into the terrain as they surveyed for potential threats or any signs of the Uzumaki forces. Their concealment was paramount; as they would not want to be the early bird that raises caution and end up becoming targeted by the entire Uzumaki clan.
Dodai and his team after confirming that this shore area was far from civilization, went inwards after setting up their retreat and looked for high ground to see the landscape and situation of the land of Uzumaki.
The Uzumaki Clan's ninja village stood proudly at the heart of the Land of Uzumaki, a harmonious blend of martial and aristocratic grandeur. The village itself was a fortress similar to most ninja villages, with its iconic red spiral crests and intricate seal-inscribed barriers that had long protected its people. Yet, even the most formidable defenses could not guarantee safety in the storm that was about to break.
Dodai and others gazed at the sprawling village from a distance. The surrounding lands were dotted with smaller communities, home to both civilian and ninja families, many of whom bore the distinct fiery hair of the Uzumaki. These people were resilient, but they were unaware of the dark tide approaching their shores.
As the 7th day approached, Dodai prepared for his most critical task. The plan was audacious; to openly approach the ninja village at the center of the Uzumaki Clan's domain. He would not hide his intentions, nor would he sugarcoat the truth. The attack was imminent, and there was no stopping it.
Gathering his most trusted shinobi, Dodai laid out the final details of their mission. "We move at dawn. Our objective is to reach the village and deliver the message directly to their leaders and people. I will offer them a choice; their heritage, in exchange for survival."
The team listened intently, understanding the delicate nature of the mission. The Uzumaki Clan was proud, fiercely independent, and deeply tied to their traditions. To warn them of an attack and propose terms that could secure their future would be a monumental challenge.
When the day came, Dodai and his team approached the village openly, their presence unhidden. The Uzumaki guards at the perimeter were immediately on high alert, their hands hovering near their weapons.
"I come in peace," Dodai announced, his voice carrying authority but no threat. "I bring a warning and a choice for your leaders and your people."
The guards hesitated, their eyes narrowing as they assessed the sincerity of his words. Eventually, one stepped forward. "Follow me," he said curtly, gesturing for the team to enter under close watch.
As Dodai stepped into the village, the weight of his task pressed heavily on him. The Uzumaki Clan had survived for generations, their heritage a cornerstone of their identity. To ask them to trade it for survival was no small matter.
Yet, it was the only way to ensure their existence in the face of the coordinated assault that was mere hours away.
But Dodai knew that the Uzumaki clan would not agree.