Chapter 14: Countermeasures, Schemes in the shadows and The Weapon Request
The first light of dawn broke over the Hidden Leaf Village, casting long shadows across the Hokage's residence. Inside, the atmosphere was tense as the village's most powerful and influential figures gathered for an emergency council meeting. Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, sat at the head of the table, his face lined with concern and determination.
In attendance were clan heads, jonin commanders, and members of the advisory council. Hiyashi Hyuga, with his stoic demeanor, represented the Hyuga clan. Shikaku Nara, the strategic genius, sat with his characteristic laziness masking a sharp mind. Inoichi Yamanaka, Choza Akimichi, Tsume Inuzuka, and Shibi Aburame were also present, each bringing their unique perspectives to the table. Danzo Shimura, ever the hawk, sat with Homura Mitokado and Koharu Utatane, the old advisors whose opinions often carried significant weight. Among the jonin were Asuma Sarutobi, Might Guy, and Kurenai Yuhi, along with several other background jonin.
Hiruzen took a deep breath before addressing the room. "Thank you all for coming on such short notice. We have received credible intelligence that the Sound Village, under the leadership of Orochimaru, is planning an imminent invasion."
The room fell silent, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Danzo was the first to speak, his voice cold and calculating. "We must mobilize our forces immediately. Orochimaru is a formidable foe, and we cannot afford to underestimate him."
Shikaku leaned forward, his fingers steepled. "We need to consider our strategy carefully. Orochimaru is known for his cunning and unpredictability. A direct confrontation might not be the best approach."
Inoichi nodded in agreement. "We should focus on gathering more intelligence. Anko's report mentioned that Kabuto met with an unknown assailant who is bringing their own forces. We need to identify who these additional enemies are."
Tsume growled, her feral instincts on high alert. "I say we hunt them down before they can strike. We can't let them take us by surprise."
Asuma spoke up. "We need to secure the village's defenses. Reinforce the barriers and set up surveillance. If Orochimaru is coming, he'll likely have a multi-pronged attack."
Hiruzen nodded. "Asuma take charge of the village defenses. Guy, and Kurenai,etc, you will assist him. Shikaku, I want you to devise a comprehensive battle plan. We need to be prepared for any scenario."
Danzo interjected, his voice laced with an edge. "Like Inuzuku-dono said we should also consider preemptive strikes. We cannot sit idly by and wait for the enemy to come to us."
Homura and Koharu nodded in agreement. "They have a point," Koharu said. "A preemptive strike could disrupt their plans and give us the upper hand."
Hiruzen shook his head. "While a preemptive strike could be beneficial, it also carries significant risks. We must ensure the safety of our villagers above all else."
Hiyashi, who had been silent until now, added, "We should also coordinate with our allies. The Sand Village's stance is uncertain, and we cannot afford to be caught off guard by any surprise alliances."
Hiruzen nodded thoughtfully. "Agreed. I will reach out to our allies and seek their assistance. In the meantime, we must remain vigilant and prepared."
The council members murmured in agreement, the weight of the situation heavy on their shoulders. Hiruzen's eyes scanned the room, taking in the determined faces of his comrades. "We have faced many challenges before, and we have always emerged stronger. We will do so again. Dismissed."
As the council members filed out of the room, Hiruzen remained standing, his mind already racing with plans and contingencies. The safety of the village rested on their shoulders, and failure was not an option. He silently vowed to protect the village at all costs, knowing that the coming days would test their strength and resolve like never before.
