Konoha’s White Fang Shines

Chapter 54: The Dire Situation

"General, may I request an introduction to your strategist? With the help of your advisor, we might be able to draft a strategy more efficiently," Yuji suggested respectfully.

The bald general, Iwazuka, slapped his head so hard that the sound echoed through the tent, startling everyone present. "Ah, I almost forgot! The strategist told me to inform him as soon as you arrived. Good thing you reminded me, or I'd have completely overlooked it."

Seeing Iwazuka's straightforward and genuine reaction, Yuji suppressed a smile and bowed slightly. "We'll wait here. Thank you for making the arrangements, General."

Iwazuka nodded with a grin. "Sit tight, everyone. I'll be back soon." With that, he left the tent, his heavy steps fading into the distance.

---

After a short wait, a man dressed in a violet official robe, with a high hat, refined features, and long hair tied neatly, entered the tent. His tall, lean figure exuded an air of confidence.

Iwazuka's booming voice announced the man's arrival. "Strategist Hashiki, they're waiting for you inside."

The figure nodded, stepping into the tent gracefully. "Welcome, esteemed shinobi from the Leaf Village," Hashiki greeted with a slight bow. His tone was calm, measured, and polite.

Yuji quickly stepped forward to greet him, offering a warm smile. "You must be the army's strategist. Please, come in."

Hashiki's sharp eyes scanned the group, assessing each member. His gaze lingered slightly longer on Genma, who stood with a reserved expression.

As Hashiki observed the team, they, too, scrutinized him. While there was no malice in their curiosity, it was clear they were trying to gauge the kind of person they would be working with.

Genma, standing at the back, found himself slightly annoyed. The formality of the situation reminded him of old historical dramas he used to read about back in school. The combination of Hashiki's demeanor and attire felt like a blast from the past, complete with all the rigid etiquette.

"Apologies for not greeting you sooner," Hashiki began. "The demands of my position have kept me occupied."

His polite but distant demeanor didn't surprise Genma, though it did leave him unimpressed. Yuji, however, responded with equal politeness. "We understand, Strategist. There's no need to apologize. But to facilitate our discussions, might I suggest a less formal tone? You can simply call me Yuji."

Hashiki smiled faintly. "In that case, please call me Hashiki. Now, I assume you've been briefed on the situation?"

Yuji shook his head. "We've heard the basics, but we lack detailed information. We'd appreciate it if you could fill in the gaps."

Hashiki glanced toward the tent's entrance as if expecting Iwazuka to appear. Seeing no sign of him, he shook his head with a resigned smile. "I see. It seems Iwazuka was too impatient to provide a full briefing. Allow me to explain."

---

Hashiki detailed the events of the past few days:

1. Day One: A group of soldiers disappeared during the night. By the time their absence was noticed, both the missing soldiers and their abductors had vanished without a trace.

2. Day Two: The attackers shifted their focus to the camp's supplies. Weapons and rations were targeted systematically. Fortunately, fire prevention measures limited the damage.

3. Day Three: Despite dispersing the supplies and hiding some among the soldiers, the attackers caused widespread chaos. Unable to locate their targets, they resorted to random destruction, leaving the camp in disarray.

The precision and escalation of these attacks demonstrated a keen tactical mind behind them. Hashiki emphasized the need to anticipate the enemy's next move while reinforcing the camp's defenses.

---

The team engaged in a lengthy discussion with Hashiki, brainstorming strategies under his guidance. Possible approaches included luring the enemy into a trap, setting up ambushes, and remaining flexible to adapt to the enemy's tactics.

Hours passed before Iwazuka returned, carrying four large baskets filled with food. "Hey, it's nearly lunchtime, so I brought something for everyone," he said sheepishly, his booming voice contrasting with his awkward demeanor.

Everyone turned to look at him, and he froze momentarily under their stares. "Uh... should I just leave these here?" he asked hesitantly.

Hashiki chuckled softly. "General Iwazuka is a bit too hands-on sometimes, but he means well. Let's get some space cleared for the food."

Iwazuka nodded and quickly left the tent to fetch a table. Meanwhile, the group helped themselves to the baskets of food, their spirits slightly lifted by the break.

When Iwazuka returned, carrying a large wooden table by himself, Raido immediately rushed to help. "General, there's no need for you to do this yourself! You'll embarrass the rest of us."

Iwazuka laughed heartily, setting the table down with Raido's assistance. "No need to worry about me. By the way, you must be the young man who gave Taito a run for his money in the swordsmanship contest."

"Wait, how do you know about me?" Raido asked, pleasantly surprised.

Iwazuka chuckled, ruffling Raido's hair. "Taito described you perfectly. Your unique outfit and energetic personality made it easy to recognize you."

Raido beamed with pride, puffing out his chest. "I guess I'm becoming famous! Maybe I should take a lap around the camp to see how many people know me."

Iwazuka laughed again. "If you do, don't be surprised if they ask for a sparring match."

Raido, oblivious to the implications, reveled in the thought of his growing reputation. After helping set up, he joined the others for lunch, his excitement infectious.

---

Following the meal, the group resumed their discussions. Three potential strategies emerged:

1. Luring the Enemy: Create a false vulnerability to draw the enemy out and then ambush them.

2. Setting an Ambush: Preemptively identify likely infiltration points and lie in wait.

3. Adaptive Response: Rely on swift, decisive action to counter the enemy's movements as they occur.

Hashiki provided detailed insights into the enemy's methods, which were both calculated and ruthless. It became clear that the attackers aimed to maximize their impact with minimal risk.

As the team debated the merits of each approach, Genma and Yuji volunteered to use Earth Release: Hiding Like a Mole Technique to scout underground. To expedite their reconnaissance, Genma created shadow clones to assist.

---

Their findings were alarming. Beneath the camp, numerous explosive tags had been planted, indicating a sophisticated sabotage effort. Genma marked their locations and returned to the tent to report his findings.

Upon entering, Raido greeted him with a cheeky grin. "Hey, Genma! If you'd stayed down there any longer, your girlfriend might've gone after you herself!"

Genma froze, confused by Raido's teasing. He turned to look at Kurenai, who stood nearby with a mix of embarrassment and concern. Her face flushed a deep cherry red, her expression both annoyed and flustered.

Clearly, something had happened in his absence.

Before Genma could press for an explanation, Yuji entered the tent. "Ah, Genma, you're back. Kurenai was worried sick about you."

"Is it because of what's underground?" Genma asked.

Yuji nodded, his expression serious. "You found the explosive tags, didn't you? I had the others evacuate and prepare the soldiers for potential danger."

Genma frowned. "You think they're baiting us?"

Yuji smiled knowingly. "Exactly. If we aren't careful, we might spring their trap. But I must say, your quick thinking and thorough scouting have been impressive. Keep this up, and you'll make an excellent jōnin one day."

Genma blushed slightly at the praise but quickly excused himself to speak with Kurenai. As he approached her, Yuji chuckled softly. "That boy acts like nothing in the world matters more than his girlfriend."

End of Chapter 54