Despite the Uchiha Clan currently managing the Konoha Police Force, the village often ignored their opinions when it came to crucial decisions.
In reality, both the Uchiha and Senju Clans detested war. A large-scale conflict would inevitably weaken their strength, as they were always tasked with handling the most difficult enemies. The Senju Clan, in particular, had suffered severe losses during the First Shinobi War. Many of their finest shinobi had perished, including Tobirama Senju himself, leading to the clan's sharp decline in power.
If not for Uzumaki Mito's presence, the Senju Clan might not have even been invited to attend this meeting.
After the Uchiha and Senju clans made their statements, the heads of families allied with the Hokage began sharing their opinions. Among them, the Nara Clan head stood out, presenting numerous well-reasoned and logically sound suggestions.
Even Hiruzen Sarutobi was impressed—many points the Nara Clan head brought up were things Hiruzen hadn't considered. It was no exaggeration to say that when it came to intelligence, the Nara Clan shinobi were unparalleled in Konoha.
"Based on intelligence gathered by the ANBU, it seems there's a possibility of an alliance forming between the Land of Earth and the Land of Wind," the Hyūga Clan head began. "If we march into the Land of Rain, we'll likely face pressure from three sides. Therefore, I don't recommend intervening in the conflict too early. We can wait for the Land of Wind and the Land of Earth to clash with the Land of Rain first, allowing their forces to wear each other down before we make our move."
The Hyūga Clan was known for its conservative stance.
"Lord Hokage, our forces are no weaker than those of the Land of Earth or the Land of Wind. Even if we include the Land of Rain, their numbers barely surpass ours. I propose we strike first. By seizing fertile territories in the Land of Rain early on, we can establish strategic footholds and prepare for a prolonged campaign," another clan head argued.
"With Konoha's strong logistical support, the Lands of Earth and Wind would hesitate to provoke us directly. The Land of Rain's territory is vast enough for three nations to carve up, so our primary challenge would be fending off pressure from Hanzo and his forces."
"Hanzo of the Salamander may be strong, but even he cannot withstand an assault from three great nations."
"If we delay our actions and let the Lands of Earth and Wind claim the Land of Rain's fertile territories, do you think we'll be able to dislodge them later and take those lands for ourselves?"
The head of the Nara Clan immediately countered, "If we must fight, then we should seize the initiative. Hanzo is a formidable opponent, but the Land of Rain's limited resources and small size mean their shinobi pool is equally constrained. Otherwise, the Land of Rain might have already rivaled the great nations."
"Furthermore, the Land of Earth and the Land of Lightning have always been at odds. The Land of Earth would be cautious about committing too many forces to the Land of Rain, as it would leave them vulnerable to an attack from the Land of Lightning. Their deployment in the Land of Rain would be limited at best. I, too, support moving in quickly and securing the resource-rich territories."
The Akimichi Clan head nodded in agreement. "Exactly. The Land of Earth wouldn't dare leave themselves exposed to the Land of Lightning. If we act swiftly, we can claim strategic positions before they do."
"Lord Hokage, seizing the initiative in war is crucial. If we act decisively, we can minimize casualties," added the Yamanaka Clan head.
As always, the Ino-Shika-Cho trio of clans stood united, with the Nara Clan leading the charge.
One by one, the clan heads voiced their opinions, and the majority supported initiating the conflict sooner rather than later.
"We cannot afford to delay. Securing the advantage early is paramount," Hiruzen Sarutobi concluded, his voice firm.
"From this point forward, we'll draft detailed battle plans and coordinate our forces for a unified deployment," he announced.
The room quickly filled with discussions as the clan heads worked together to formulate a comprehensive strategy.
...
Meanwhile, at Jiraiya's House
When Jiraiya returned home, he was greeted by the warm aroma of food and the sight of Tsunade busy in the kitchen.
"You're back. Dinner's almost ready. Go rest for a bit," Tsunade said with a sweet smile.
"I'll help," Jiraiya replied, washing his hands and stepping into the kitchen.
Tsunade was chopping vegetables, her golden hair tied back to keep it from falling into her face. As she worked, her movements caused the curves of her figure to shift enticingly.
Unable to resist, Jiraiya moved behind her and slid his hands around her waist.
"I'm cooking! Stop fooling around," Tsunade said, her body tensing slightly as her cheeks flushed.
"I'm just testing your focus," Jiraiya teased, grinning mischievously.
By the time dinner was ready, Tsunade's face was red, and her legs seemed to wobble slightly as she carried the dishes to the table.
"So, what took you so long today? What did Sensei want with you?" she asked, serving Jiraiya his meal.
"He called me in for my jōnin evaluation," Jiraiya replied between bites.
"And? Did you pass?" Tsunade asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and excitement.
"Of course I did. Don't you trust my skills?" Jiraiya chuckled, placing his newly acquired jōnin forehead protector on the table for her to see.
Tsunade's eyes sparkled with admiration, though she quickly masked it.
"I won't let you stay ahead for long. Once I finish my training, I'm taking the jōnin evaluation too," she declared.
Jiraiya smiled confidently. "I'm sure you'll get your jōnin forehead protector soon. There's no doubt in my mind."
After dinner, Jiraiya pulled Tsunade close, lifting her chin so their eyes met.
"So, are you going to reward me for my promotion?"
Tsunade's cheeks turned a deep crimson. "How was I supposed to know about your evaluation? I don't have anything prepared!"
"Then how about helping me scrub my back?" Jiraiya suggested with a playful smirk.
Tsunade hesitated but eventually nodded. "Alright, but only if you promise not to try anything funny."
Jiraiya grinned, leaning closer. "Don't worry. I'll behave… for now."
Though nervous, Tsunade agreed, her heart pounding in her chest. Some things could wait, but their bond, she knew, would only grow stronger over time.
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Pls Drop some Power Stones
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