Under the night sky, at the Konoha ninja base.
Uchiha Kaien sits refreshed in his tent after a full afternoon of training. Even now, people can still see his wet hair.
"Big Brother Kaien is really hardworking."
At this moment, Uchiha Shisui in the tent looks at his elder brother who is busy with official duties but still remembers to train, and immediately shows a look of admiration. On the side, Hatake Kakashi also shows a look of shame, nods, and quietly ponders. Kaien's pressure is too great; he must help him as much as he can.
"What information requires us to go out so late at night?"
At this moment, Uchiha Kaien shows curiosity. Hyuga Hizashi, who is usually calm, respectfully hands over an intelligence scroll.
"Lord Kaien, according to the investigation, a Mist ninja elite squad of more than fifty members is preparing to set off from here tomorrow night and then launch a surprise attack from the sea."
Looking at Hyuga Hizashi pointing solemnly at the map, Kaien frowns and shows a thoughtful look. "Attacking from the sea is almost like striking us from behind. And if the Mist ninjas smell a trap, they can vanish into the ocean."
It has to be said that in the ninja world, apart from the protagonist, everyone has their own strength. The Mist ninjas' flexibility is unparalleled.
Though the ninja world's recorded history is short, espionage, surprises, poisonings, ambushes, and direct clashes all mix in their warfare.
"Mist ninja have assembled an elite squad of more than fifty."
Kaien's finger traced the map's coastline behind their base and tapped a specific location. A mocking smile crossed his face.
"They've studied us well. The refined iron and chakra metal from our mines these past months accumulate there. We planned an escort in three days, but they chose this spot instead."
He clapped once in admiration. "A beautiful feint—our guards all focused on the route, never dreaming they'd strike here."
"Brother Kaien, this is my oversight," Shisui stepped forward, but Kaien waved him off.
"A genuine sneak attack could hurt us—but what if they leaked this intel themselves?"
A mysterious smile slowly formed on Kaien's lips.
"Lord Kaien, are you suggesting they divide their forces?" Hizashi asked solemnly.
All eyes turned inquisitive. Kaien admitted with a nod that cunning was widespread, even in culture-starved villages.
"Better called 'drawing the tiger from the mountain.'"
He began pointing on the map. "Our base's elites are like tigers in their den. If we pull seventy elite shinobi out to set an ambush, the base weakens."
"Drawing the tiger from the mountain!" Kakashi's eyes lit up—reveling in the phrase as if a scholar.
Laughter and praise burst forth. Kaien shook his head, chiding them for flattery.
"My rule: sweat in training so you bleed less in war. We adopt defensive measures—but that doesn't mean fear."
He continued, "When they attack, we hold strong—then spring traps. Transfer all minerals, and set ambushes along the coast."
"If they send their main force, we'll lure them into a pincer. Quick ambush by Kakashi's strike team, while our rear blocks their escape."
Approval rang out.
"Lord Kaien, impressive strategy."
"Indeed, even after two Great Wars, I've never heard this before. I feel exhilarated already!"
Kaien laughed, "Don't flatter me—our greatest asset here is the Byakugan."
Eyes turned to Hyuga Hizashi.
"Without Hyuga radar on the front lines, we'd never dare be so bold. If anything seems off, fire a signal flare—no ninja can miss it at night."
The camp savored this rare lighthearted moment.
"However, it's impolite to merely receive. We won't remain passive."
Kaien's gaze settled on Kakashi. "Kakashi, lead a ten-man surprise strike team. Your reconnaissance, Anbu background, and record as a twelve-year-old Chunin make you ideal."
Kakashi nodded solemnly.
Kaien then added, "Two more squads: one of Hyuga elites under Hizashi, one of Uchiha elites under Shisui, plus Genma's guard squad. All elites—ten in total."
"Ten against fifty?" Shisui's brow furrowed.
Kaien smiled. "You won't invade their territory. Instead, from range, light a massive beacon fire. The Mist ninjas won't ignore it. While they investigate, strike swiftly—they'll falter in confusion."
Realization dawned. Approval filled the tent.
"Lord Kaien, your calm in war is extraordinary."
"A natural-born leader—you command with ease and care for the Leaf!"
Kaien waved off praise, then addressed all. "Strategy rests on unity and readiness. Stay vigilant, train harder, and let's turn their deception against them."
Outside, Yugao, Kurenai, and Anko watched, admiration shining in their eyes.
A hardworking commander is the strongest attraction—his strength inspires unwavering loyalty.
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