Chapter 204: Ninja Allied Army

"According to reports from the reconnaissance ninjas, there are indeed massive life forms underground, advancing toward the eastern coastline of the Land of Fire. Their precise destination remains unclear, and further tracking is underway," a Konoha ninja calmly reported, holding a document in his hand.

Opposite him, the Five Kage of the major ninja villages sat solemnly, absorbing the gravity of the situation.

"This confirms Hokage's intelligence," said Raikage A, his face serious. "Given this, we will proceed with our earlier agreement. All combat forces from each village will deploy within the Land of Fire."

"It's terrifying to think what would've happened had we not received this information in time," murmured Mizukage Terumi Mei, a trace of unease on her face. "If they had turned their forces on one of our villages unexpectedly, we wouldn't have been able to hold out long enough for reinforcements."

Tsuchikage Onoki floated a bit higher in his seat and added, "Our current approach is correct. If the enemy is capable of moving underground, they can launch surprise attacks from anywhere. By gathering our forces in advance, we deny them the advantage of secrecy and positioning."

"Any division among us will only give the enemy the opportunity to pick us off one by one," Kazekage Gaara interjected calmly, his gaze lingering briefly on Raikage A and Onoki. "We must remain united."

Raikage A leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "Fine. As we've discussed before, Tsunade will act as the supreme commander of the Ninja Allied Army. Given that the battlefield will be on Konoha's doorstep, it's logical for her to lead."

"Hmph, let's hope the so-called 'Princess Tsunade' can live up to the challenge," Onoki muttered with a neutral expression.

Tsunade, who had remained quiet until now, finally spoke with authority: "I accept the role of supreme commander of the Ninja Allied Army."

The room fell silent, all eyes on her, awaiting her first orders.

"Raikage will act as Chief Strategist, prioritizing the safety of Naruto and Killer Bee," Tsunade declared. "Their protection is our top priority."

Despite widespread rumors that Naruto and Killer Bee were in Konoha, the truth was that both were on Turtle Island in the Cloud Village, training to master their Tailed Beasts. According to periodic reports from Jiraiya, Naruto's training had progressed well, and he had begun to gain control over the Nine Tails' power.

Tsunade, however, was adamant that Naruto would not yet participate in this war. He needed to grow stronger first.

"Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on the two of them," Raikage A said firmly. Protecting his brother, Killer Bee, was already his top priority.

Next, Tsunade appointed Gaara as the field captain of the Allied Forces, entrusting him with coordinating troop movements and battlefield strategies. Onoki and Terumi Mei were designated as strategic advisors to assist Shikaku Nara, Konoha's chief tactician, in planning the war.

Onoki's extensive battlefield experience and Terumi Mei's expertise in naval combat made them ideal choices for the positions.

With the roles assigned and the first steps laid out, Tsunade dismissed the meeting. The Kage returned to their respective duties, sending messages to their daimyos for additional resources and financial support.

Over the next few days, the once-crowded streets of Konoha began to empty. Ninjas who had gathered in the village departed in groups, headed for strategic locations.

In the heart of the Land of Fire, a deserted valley had been transformed into a massive, fortified military headquarters. This imposing structure would serve as the central command post for the Ninja Allied Army.

Kirito had been stationed at the site for several days, tasked with leading the fortress's construction. By combining his Wood Release with Iwagakure's Lava Release: Cement, Kirito had expedited the building process immensely.

Standing atop the fortress's towering battlements, Kirito surveyed the vast gathering of shinobi below. It was the first time he had seen so many people together in both his past and present lives. The sight stirred something within him—a mix of pride and resolve.

"They better thank us for this," said Kurotsuchi, Onoki's granddaughter, standing beside Kirito with her hands on her hips. "If we hadn't worked overtime, they'd all be sleeping in the mud right now!"

Kirito smirked and wiped imaginary sweat from his forehead. "The view isn't bad, though, don't you think?"

"Yeah, yeah," Kurotsuchi agreed, glancing at the terrain. "Honestly, I didn't expect Konoha to have such a skilled Earth Release user. And this Wood Release of yours is something else. No wonder Grandpa keeps talking about it."

At her comment, Kirito said nothing, only letting his gaze drift toward the distant hills.

"You should come to Iwagakure sometime. Konoha doesn't deserve a talent like you," Kurotsuchi added with a sly grin before turning to leave. "Anyway, Grandpa sends his regards. Later!"

Kirito ignored her parting remark and instead turned his attention to the distant figure of Gaara. Standing on a high balcony, Gaara appeared before the assembled forces, flanked by the four division commanders.

As Gaara stepped forward, the ninja coalition erupted into cheers.

"OH!!!"

The sound echoed across the valley, a roar of unity and resolve.

Kirito watched the scene unfold with a quiet sense of satisfaction. "Let's see what this war brings…"

(End of this chapter)