Naruto's civilian cannon fodder starts with the three-body technique

Chapter 344 Smuggling Submarines
The Hokage's office building, high-level emergency conference room.

The cheers still seemed to echo faintly outside the building, but the atmosphere inside the Hokage's office was extremely cold.

Hiruzen Sarutobi sat in the main seat, flanked by advisor elder Koharu Utatane, Jonin squad leader Sasuke Umino, Anbu chief Sagumo Hatake, and the heads of Konoha's two powerful clans, Hyuga Muneyoshi and Uchiha Kanoku, who had been urgently summoned.

Danzo Shimura was still on the front lines in Takigawa, while Torifu Akimichi was on his way back to Konoha. The six of them represented the highest decision-making body of Konoha at that moment.

Without any pleasantries, Hiruzen Sarutobi laid out Gabino's alliance conditions: sacrifice the Land of Whirlpools in exchange for an alliance between the Lightning, Water, and Fire Kingdoms, and join forces with the Hidden Cloud Village to fight against the Hidden Stone Village, thereby quickly ending the Ninja War.

"...This is the suggestion of the Hidden Cloud Village, and also the common will of the daimyo of the three kingdoms."

Hiruzen Sarutobi's voice was devoid of emotion: "Gentlemen, Konoha has reached a critical juncture. Will it continue to be mired in war for the sake of the Land of Whirlpools, a country far overseas where a ninja clan has usurped the position of daimyo, and even face the desperate situation of being besieged by the four great ninja villages? Or will it be for the survival of Konoha, for the lives of countless ninjas, and for children to never have to go to the battlefield again, to painfully sever this ancient alliance in exchange for true peace?"

He looked around at everyone and said, "I would like to hear your opinions."

"This can't be!" Before Umino Sasuke could object, Hatake Sakumo was the first to slam his fist on the table and stand up.

His signature silver hair seemed to stand on end with excitement. "The Land of Whirlpools is an ally personally forged by the First Hokage! It is the maternal clan of Lady Mito! For generations, they have provided Konoha with sealing techniques, and they are also the hometown of Kushina Uzumaki, the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki! This alliance is the cornerstone of Konoha's credibility! How can we break our promise because of the enemy's coercion and enticement?! If this precedent is set, how can Konoha stand in the ninja world? Which ninja clan will dare to truly rely on Konoha?"

He became more and more excited as he spoke, his voice strong and clear: "As for the so-called siege by the four great ninja villages, Sunagakure has been crippled, and Iwagakure and Kumogakure are engaged in fierce battle in the Land of Frost, and are already at their last gasp!"

Kirigakure? Hmph! In the battle in the Land of Rivers, Captain Umino severely injured the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist and nearly leveled half of Kirigakure with his Mutually Multiplying Explosive Tags, almost wiping out the Hozuki clan! Now Kirigakure is embroiled in internal power struggles and is too busy to start another war.

Konoha has victory in its grasp! As long as we persevere, victory will surely be ours!

Peace bought at the cost of allies is a shameful peace! It is a desecration of the Will of Fire of the First Lord!
I, Hatake Sagumo, strongly oppose this!

Umino Sasuke also slowly spoke up, expressing his support: "Hokage-sama, what Minister Sakumo said is absolutely right. The Land of Whirlpools is an ally and cannot be betrayed. Mito-senpai has done me a great favor. For both public and private reasons, I, Umino Sasuke, oppose sacrificing the Land of Whirlpools."

Although he wanted to obtain the vast knowledge of sealing techniques from the Uzumaki clan to perfect his chakra core, this was not the only way to acquire it.

By sacrificing its allies, Konoha is undoubtedly destroying its own defenses.

Looking at the two resolute individuals, especially Hatake Saikumo's vehement opposition, Hiruzen Sarutobi felt a surge of anger. He was merely wary of Umino Sasuke, but Hatake Saikumo's "disobedience" and displayed "righteousness" made him feel intensely threatened and dissatisfied.

Konoha's White Fang, so you do indeed harbor ambitions to become Hokage?!

He suppressed his anger and turned his gaze to Uchiha Kakuzu and Hyuga Muneyoshi: "What are the opinions of the two clan leaders?"

Uchiha Hikaru frowned. He had no good feelings towards the Uzumaki clan, and even despised the Uzumaki clan, which was allied with the Senju. But the proud Uchiha could not betray his ally.

He paused for a moment, then said in a low voice, "This matter is of great importance, and the advantages and disadvantages are difficult to determine. My Uchiha clan has no clear idea at the moment and needs to consider it further."

He chose to abstain and remain uninvolved.

Hyuga Muneyoshi's pure white eyes shifted slightly. He knew that the Fire Country's daimyo had a close relationship with the Hyuga clan and was well aware of the daimyo's disgust for the Uzumaki clan's "usurpation of the country by ninja clans." So he spoke slowly, his voice carrying a deliberate "consideration of the bigger picture."

"Lord Hokage's foresight is profound! The Uzumaki clan's usurpation of the Daimyo's position has already incurred the wrath of the masses, provoking the joint punishment of the Daimyo of the three kingdoms. This is a path to disaster."

If Konoha were to forcibly intervene, it would not only go against the will of the three kingdoms, but could also bring the war back to their homeland, causing countless Konoha ninjas to sacrifice themselves in vain.

For the overall benefit of Konoha, and to end the war as soon as possible so that the children can stay away from the battlefield... Our Hyuga clan believes that the Hokage's proposal is a wise choice made out of necessity.

Therefore, I support it.

He spoke the last two words clearly and confidently.

Uchiha forfeit, Hyuga supports, two against two!

The most crucial vote fell to Xiaochun, who was switching dorms.

All eyes instantly focused on this advisor elder. Koharu Utatane's expression changed as she felt the almost tangible pressure emanating from Hiruzen Sarutobi!
That gaze carried a command, even a warning. She recalled Hiruzen Sarutobi's impassioned speech "for the children" in the plaza, and then she thought of Homura Mitokado's tragic end...

She struggled internally, and finally, under Hiruzen Sarutobi's increasingly cold gaze, she closed her eyes with difficulty, her voice dry and weak: "For the sake of Konoha's greater good, and for the sake of ending the war as soon as possible, I—agree to the Hokage's proposal."

"Good!" Hiruzen Sarutobi slammed his hand on the table, as if a huge weight had been lifted off his shoulders. "Since the majority agrees, the resolution is passed! Konoha will accept the Kumogakure's proposal to not interfere in the affairs of the Land of Whirlpools and will sign a ceasefire and anti-Iwa alliance agreement with them!"

"and many more!"

Umino Sasuke spoke again, his voice somber, "The decision is Konoha's decision, but I, Umino Sasuke, and the Umino clan cannot stand idly by and watch Mito-senpai's mother's clan be destroyed."

Senior Mito has shown me immense kindness, and I will repay this debt! My Umino clan will travel to the Land of Whirlpools to attempt to rescue the Uzumaki people!

This is a private matter and has nothing to do with Konoha!

As soon as this statement came out, everyone was shocked!

A glint of light flashed in Hyuga Muneyoshi's eyes, while Uchiha Kakuzu revealed a complex and unreadable expression, showing surprise as well as a hint of barely perceptible admiration.

Koharu Utatane looked at Sasuke Umino with genuine affection for the first time—this boy, though strong and domineering, is loyal, responsible, and worthy of deep friendship!
Hiruzen Sarutobi sneered inwardly, but feigned helplessness and "understanding" on the surface: "I admire Captain Unno's loyalty and righteousness. This is your personal and family's behavior, and Konoha will not interfere. But please be careful, the Cloud and Mist Alliance is no small matter."

Although he secretly hoped that Umino Sasuke would lead his elite troops to their deaths, his face was full of concern.

"Hokage-sama! I, Hatake Sagumo, wish—"

Just as Hatake Sagumo was about to volunteer to go along, he was immediately interrupted by Sarutobi Hiruzen's stern voice.

"Zuoyun! Mind your place! You are the head of Konoha's Anbu. If you bring the Anbu there, the situation will be completely different. It would be tantamount to Konoha actively tearing up the alliance that is about to be signed. Do you want Konoha to bear the name of betrayal and fall into a predicament once again?! Don't mention this matter again!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi's tone was extremely stern, and his gaze toward Saito Hatake was filled with dissatisfaction and deep distrust.

Hatake Sagumo clenched his fist until his knuckles turned white, then finally let it slump open. He knew that what Sarutobi Hiruzen said was true, but the frustration and guilt of not helping his ally in his time of need to tear his heart apart.

He could only glance at Umino Sasuke deeply, his eyes filled with apology and complex emotions.

Inside the meeting room, just as the oppressive silence seemed to solidify into a tangible reality.

A member of the Anbu appeared like a ghost, kneeling on one knee, his voice carrying a barely perceptible urgency: "Lord Hokage! Urgent information! Urgent report from the Land of Whirlpools!"

All eyes immediately turned to that direction.

"Speak!" Hiruzen Sarutobi's heart skipped a beat.

"The main force of the Cloud Village's ninja army has begun its landing operation and is launching a fierce attack on Uzushio Village! At the same time, the massive fleet of the Mist Village has arrived at the coast of the Land of Whirlpools, and the outer defenses of Uzushio Village are in dire need of attention!"

hum~
This news was like a thunderbolt, instantly shattering the carefully maintained illusion of "peace" by Hiruzen Sarutobi!
"What?!" Hatake Sagumo suddenly stood up, his silver hair bristling, and a terrifying cold light flashed in his eyes.

He slammed his hand on the table, making a loud noise: "What a Cloud Hidden Sect! What a 'covenant'! This was clearly premeditated!"

Whether we agree or not, they are determined to destroy the Land of Whirlpools!

That bastard Gabino probably already prepared for a full-scale war with Konoha the moment he decided to kidnap Kushina!

They only pretended to put forward the so-called alliance after failing to steal the Jinchuriki, trying to appease us!
"A wolf in sheep's clothing! His heart deserves to be punished!"

His voice was like an ice pick, stinging Hiruzen Sarutobi's cheek.

Hiruzen Sarutobi's face instantly turned extremely ugly, alternating between pale and flushed. He had just been talking about "seizing the opportunity to sign an alliance in exchange for peace," but reality had slapped him hard in the face in the blink of an eye! The actions of Kumogakure were undoubtedly telling him: whether Konoha signs or not, Uzushiogakure is determined to be conquered!
This is not only a slap in the face, but also puts him in an extremely awkward and dangerous situation. In everyone's eyes, his decision looks foolish and weak!
However, Hiruzen Sarutobi was, after all, the Hokage who had led Konoha for many years. He was extremely shrewd and cunning. After his intense shame and anger, he reacted with even stronger resistance. He absolutely could not admit that he had made a mistake in his judgment, and he could not allow his authority to be shaken in front of the higher-ups!
He took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing his surging anger, and forced a cold, decisive expression of "everything is under control" onto his face. His voice was firm and unwavering:
"It is precisely because Yunyin harbors wolfish ambitions and plots that we must seize this opportunity to sign an alliance with him!"
With the official endorsement of the daimyo of the three kingdoms of fire, thunder, and water, once the alliance is established, if the Hidden Cloud Village dares to break it, it will be betraying the three kingdoms at the same time! The price is something that even the Hidden Cloud Village cannot afford!
This proves that signing an alliance at this moment is the only correct choice to best restrain the Hidden Cloud Village, ensure the safety of the area surrounding the Leaf Village, and end the war as soon as possible!

We must act immediately and finalize the alliance before the Land of Whirlpools completely falls!

This sophistry and illogical twisting made everyone present, except for Hyuga Muneyoshi, feel intense absurdity and discomfort.

In Uchiha Hikaru's crimson Sharingan eyes, a naked doubt about Hiruzen Sarutobi's decision and a hint of anger at being fooled were revealed. The betrayal and provocation of Kumogakure touched his pride as the head of the Uchiha clan. His original neutral stance of abstaining immediately wavered, and he tended to support the hardline position of Hatake Sagumo and Umino Sasuke.

Koharu Utatane was completely bewildered, confused by the rapidly deteriorating situation and Hiruzen Sarutobi's sophistry. She didn't know how to express her opinion and could only remain silent.

Hiruzen Sarutobi gave no one a chance to object or change the decision. He abruptly stood up and, with the absolute authority of the Hokage, gave the order:
"The decision is final and cannot be changed! Release Gabino immediately! Notify the Cloud Village delegation that Konoha agrees to the terms of the alliance and ask them to come to the Hokage Building immediately to discuss the specific details and complete the signing of the alliance as quickly as possible!"

His sharp gaze swept over the crowd, carrying an undeniable air of authority: "Before the alliance is signed, any action against Cloud Village will be considered a breach of peace! You will bear the consequences!"

Sasuke Umino sneered inwardly as he looked at Hiruzen Sarutobi's almost obsessive attitude. He knew that Konoha was a military organization, and under the system where the Hokage had the final decision-making power and veto power, unless a coup was launched or the Hokage died suddenly, there was no way to change Hiruzen Sarutobi's decision. Continuing to stay here and argue was just a waste of time.

Without saying another word, he stood up, nodded slightly to Hiruzen Sarutobi, and said in a calm tone, "Since the Hokage has decided to sign the alliance, the details of the negotiations will be handled by you and the others. The Land of Whirlpools is in imminent danger, and we cannot forget the kindness of Mito-senpai. My Umino clan will set off to rescue them immediately. Farewell!"

After saying that, he turned around and strode out of the conference room without waiting for Hiruzen Sarutobi's response.

As Hiruzen Sarutobi watched Sasuke Unno's departing figure, a sinister glint flashed in his eyes. He wished that Sasuke Unno would run into the blades of Kumogakure and Kirigakure, and preferably lose their elite forces.

He immediately instructed a Jonin beside him: "Notify all relevant departments that all active-duty ninjas of the Umino clan are granted leave! They are permitted to accompany Squad Leader Umino to the Land of Whirlpools! Vacancies will be filled by other ninjas immediately!"

This seemingly "reasonable" support is actually a drastic measure, draining the Umino clan's power within the Konoha system and pushing them into danger.

Sasuke Umino's figure swept across the streets of Konoha like a gust of wind, heading straight back to the Umino clan's territory to relay the message and orders.

At this moment, the atmosphere in the Umino tribe's territory was heavy and solemn, as they efficiently assembled.

On the spacious training ground, nearly a hundred Umino clan ninjas, dressed in uniform dark blue combat suits, stood in neat rows. Although their eyes showed the nervousness of carrying out a large-scale mission for the first time, they also showed absolute obedience to their clan leader's orders.

Beside them was a smaller but more solid team of guest retainers: the goofy brothers Might Guy and Kazekami Raishin, as well as several special Jonin who were affiliated with the Umino clan.

Beside them were about twenty Mitomon clan ninjas. As vassals of Umino, their expressions were the most complex at this moment. They were worried about the uncertain future, but more than that, they felt a sense of belonging and determination to "stand with their master."

The core members of the Umino clan, including Umino Ikkaku, Umino Kokoro, Umino Tobirama, and Umino Tetsu, were also on the list. Umino Sasuke's gaze swept over this force that had embodied his hard work—nearly a hundred Umino clan soldiers, more than twenty Mito-mon vassals, nearly ten guest retainers, and a Umino ninja army of over a hundred people!
"Second Brother! The clan troops have assembled! We can set off at any time!" Haiye Xiaoxin stepped forward, her voice clear and strong.

She had changed into her battle gear, and her icy blue eyes shone with determination.

Umino Sasuke nodded and said in a deep voice, "The Land of Whirlpools is under siege by the combined forces of Kumogakure and Kirigakure! Mito-senpai's maternal clan is in imminent danger! My Umino clan owes Mito-senpai a great debt of gratitude, and we will repay it with our lives! We are going not for Konoha, but to protect the kindness and righteousness of our clan! We will repay our debts!"

"Uphold our gratitude! We will repay our debts!" ​​The soldiers of the Haiye clan roared in unison, their voices shaking the heavens.

The Mitomon clan and their retainers were also inspired and joined in.

This clan motto, which embodies the core spirit of the Umino clan, has now become the soul of this ninja army.

"set off!"

At Umino Sasuke's command, the massive ninja army surged out of the clan's gates like a floodgate opened, marching at full speed along the main road towards the Teku clan's territory!
Such a large-scale and well-organized mobilization of ninja forces is extremely rare in Konoha during peacetime, and it immediately caused a huge sensation among the villagers and ninjas along the way!

"My God! So many people! Are they all ninjas from the Umino clan?"

"I heard he's going to support the Land of Whirlpools. Lord Umino is truly a man of great loyalty and righteousness!"

"Look! So many unfamiliar faces. How long has the Umino clan been around? How come there are so many ninjas already? There must be over a hundred of them!"

"If you remove the Mitokado family members and those few famous guest retainers, the Jun Umino family's ninjas... wow! That's too many! It feels like they have more combat ninjas than many established ninja clans could muster!"

"Although these ninjas' auras seem unstable, they are all genuine ninjas! The foundation of the Umino clan is unfathomable! No wonder they became a first-class powerful clan as soon as they started. Judging from their demeanor, they truly have the potential to become a top-tier powerful clan like the Uchiha or Hyuga!"

The ninja clan's settlement area was even more turbulent.

The observers sent by each family looked at the massive procession with eyes filled with shock and apprehension.

They knew that Umino Sasuke was very strong personally and had a lot of connections, but they did not expect that the Umino clan's soldiers had grown to such an extent without anyone noticing. This was no longer just potential, but a real strength that could change the power structure within Konoha!
Hiruzen Sarutobi's informants, who had been planted among the crowd, quickly reported the size and composition of this ninja army in detail.

Sasuke Unno was well aware of this, and it was exactly the effect he wanted.

Show your strength to deter the scoundrels.

The shadow clones he left behind, along with Umino Kozuru leading a small number of clan soldiers, were enough to deal with any situation in the clan. If a powerful enemy attacked, his main body could instantly return using the Flying Thunder God Technique.

The ninja army quickly arrived at the territory of the Teku clan.

Chief Teju had already been waiting here with his people. Nine large desert falcons, with their wings just beginning to grow but already showing the might of raptors, were quietly lying on the open ground, their sharp eyes curiously observing the assembled ninja army.

Leading the pack was the much larger and more composed Big White.

"Lord Sasuke! The ninja beasts are ready!" Clan Chief Teku bowed respectfully.

"Thank you for your trouble!" Sasuke Umino nodded.

Without much command, the ninja army immediately began to board in an orderly manner. The largest of the three, Big White, carried more than ten people, including core members such as Umino Sasuke, Umino Ikkaku, Umino Koko, Umino Tobirama, and Might Guy.

The remaining eight juvenile giant falcons could each carry six to eight people. The Mitomon clan ninjas and some young Umino clan soldiers boarded first.

The remaining fifty or so Seafolk soldiers quickly took out folded metal parts from their ninja tool bags and skillfully assembled them. With a series of clicks, exquisitely crafted "flying armor" pieces, shimmering with the metallic luster of chakra, covered their backs and limb joints.

These armors feature sleek designs and are inlaid with stable chakra engines at their core. They are standard equipment developed by the Umino clan, combining air ninja techniques with the support of tech giants Hiruko and Orochimaru.

"All troops, move out!" came the order from Umino Sasuke.

Om-!
Fifty pale blue chakra flames shone from the jet nozzles at the rear of the aircraft armor. The Umino soldiers, clad in the aircraft, floated steadily into the air like a swarm of bees leaving their hive, under precise control.

Their movements were perfectly synchronized, demonstrating amazing training results.

At the same time, guided by their respective pilots, the nine giant desert falcons let out loud cries, spread their broad wings, and soared into the air with powerful air currents that stirred up dust! The sky was instantly occupied by this peculiar mixed force! The nine huge birds of prey carried dozens of ninjas on their backs, and around them were fifty flying ninjas who hovered in their own aircraft, guarding them like stars surrounding the moon!
This spectacular and awe-inspiring scene left all the Konoha villagers and ninjas who witnessed it speechless, and then erupted in huge exclamations and discussions!

"They're flying! So many people are flying!"

"That's the Teku clan's Desert Falcon! And what are those ninjas from the Umino clan carrying on their backs? Chakra-powered flying machines?!"

"My God! Konoha has its own 'air force' now! That's amazing!"

"Look! Doesn't this look just like the Sky Ninja attack back then? But this time it's our own troops! Awesome!"

"With this kind of power, what are we afraid of air raids for? The Teku family is going to prosper!"

"Yes! I want a desert falcon too! Or even just a flying vehicle like that!"

"Stop dreaming. The Desert Giant Falcon is said to be extremely expensive to raise. Its flying armor looks very expensive, and it requires special chakra control skills. I estimate that only the Umino clan and their allies can afford to equip it."

"Even if we can't get close to the Umino clan, we might have a chance if we can build good relationships with the Teku family or the Inuzuka family, who are in charge of breeding ninja beasts..."

The crowd was abuzz with discussion, filled with envy, pride, and anticipation for the future of this air force.

The Umino clan's "debut" was like a boulder thrown into a lake, showcasing not only the clan's formidable strength and cutting-edge technology, but also igniting a surge of enthusiasm for building an "air force" within Konoha.

It is foreseeable that the status of the Teku clan's flying summoning beasts and the Inuzuka clan's ninja beast breeding will rise in the future, and orders and cooperation requests will come in like snowflakes.

"Target—Land of Waves! Full speed ahead!"

Sasuke Umino's voice was clearly transmitted to each team member's ears through his chakra.

The Great White let out a long cry that pierced the clouds and split rocks, and took the lead in flapping its wings, flying eastward with the members it carried. The other eight giant falcons followed closely behind, while the fifty flying ninjas tacitly dispersed in front, behind, to the left, right and below the giant falcon formation, forming a protective formation.

Their aircraft jets adjusted their angles to propel their bodies forward at high speeds. Team members who consumed a lot of chakra would take turns landing on the broad back of the giant falcon to rest and recover during the flight.

The massive aerial formation, like a flock of migrating geese, swept over the village under the gaze of countless awestruck and envious eyes from Konoha, and quickly disappeared into the eastern horizon.

However, they were not flying in a straight line towards the northeastern sea area where the Land of Whirlpools was located, but rather towards the Land of Waves, which was slightly to the south!

……

The Land of Waves, a secret port.

As soon as the Umino ninja army arrived in the Land of Waves, Gato and his trusted men were already waiting at the port.

The brand-new aircraft armor was neatly stacked in a specially made container, reflecting a cold metallic luster in the sunlight.

"Lord Umino! The latest 'Falcon Wing III' aircraft is ready! Not only has the stability and coverage of the chakra shield engine been enhanced, but small chakra missile launchers have also been added to the arms, with a single shot power approaching that of a B-rank ninjutsu! It's a pity about the chakra main cannon..."

Kado rubbed his hands together, a hint of regret on his face. "The main cannon has too high requirements for the quality and quantity of the user's chakra. Apart from Jonin with more chakra, even if ordinary clan soldiers are equipped with it, it is difficult to effectively activate it in actual combat, and it will become a burden instead."

Sasuke Umino nodded, not surprised by the result.

Although his Seafolk soldiers had a numerical advantage, their individual chakra strength and control precision varied greatly. The defensive and auxiliary attack capabilities of this new equipment were already at their limit.

"It's fine, that's enough. Distribute the equipment immediately!" Sasuke Umino ordered.

The Umino Ninja Army moved swiftly, skillfully changing their equipment. The new aircraft armor was more streamlined, with the shield engine modules at the joints humming slightly, and missile launch slots on the outer sides of the arms.

After their equipment was upgraded, the Umino ninja army did not continue to take off on the Desert Falcons. Instead, guided by Gato, they quickly entered the five dark, steel behemoths moored deep in the harbor!
"What kind of huge iron ship is this?" Tobirama Umino stared wide-eyed at the steel structure that resembled a giant whale, a sight he had never seen before, filled with curiosity.

They were covered in a matte coating, with only faint indicator lights flashing at the command tower, exuding a cold and dangerous aura.

"This is called a submarine, Saburo."

Sasuke Umino explained calmly, "It can move underwater and has excellent concealment. It's a special vehicle that I 'borrowed' from the Land of Waves. The waters of the Land of Whirlpools must be blocked by the fleets of the Cloud and Mist Villages right now. The airborne targets are too large. Only by moving underwater can we have a chance to approach Whirlpool Village."

He did not specify that these submarines were originally his idea, with technical support from Hiruko and Orochimaru, and were secretly built by the Land of Waves with a huge investment.

The original purpose of developing them was simply to circumvent the powerful naval forces of the Water Kingdom and to conduct "smuggling trade".

These submarines not only have an astonishing carrying capacity, but their internal space, expanded by spatial sealing techniques, can accommodate more than a hundred people per submarine. Furthermore, their hulls incorporate the chakra shield technology and high-strength alloys of the Sky Ninja Fortress, making their attack and defense capabilities quite formidable.

Equipped with underwater chakra torpedoes and sonic detection systems, they possess combat capabilities comparable to large summoned sea monsters.

The enormous sea beast offering at the Umino clan's founding ceremony was something these submarines disposed of incidentally while carrying out "smuggling trade."

The Land of Waves was able to develop so rapidly in a short period of time not only because of the high quality of its products, but also because of Kakuzu's military might and the steel behemoths hidden deep underwater.

Umino's ninja forces quickly entered the submarine.

Accompanied by a low hum of machinery and a slight vibration, the five submarines submerged silently like ghosts and disappeared beneath the surface of the sea.

The fleet only slowed down slightly near the Angkor fortress island, and after rendezvousing with the submarine where Kakuzu was located, it continued straight ahead.

After several hours of underwater navigation, bypassing the tight coastal patrol lines of the two villages of Yunwu, they silently arrived at the coastal waters of the Land of Whirlpools.

……

Inside the submarine's command center.

"Secret Technique: Telescope Technique!"

Sasuke Umino formed hand seals, sensing the situation on the shore.

The Land of Whirlpools, an island nation surrounded by the sea and ruled by the Whirlpool Clan, is currently shrouded in war and smoke.

The Cloud Village and the Mist Village have already landed and are burning, killing, and looting.

The once peaceful and tranquil villages and towns have been reduced to ashes, with thick smoke billowing across the fields. Crying and fleeing civilians and crowds being driven and bound like livestock by the Cloud Mist Ninja can be vaguely seen.

The Hidden Mist Ninjas were even more greedy, acting like pirates, plundering wealth, capturing slaves, and leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.

The Land of Whirlpools has fallen, but fortunately, Whirlpool Village has not been completely conquered.

Wochao Village, the core settlement of the Whirlpool Clan, is nestled against the majestic Wochao Mountain and faces a wide and turbulent river, built against the mountain and beside the water.

Its unique terrain gives it a natural defensive advantage. The main part of the village is located halfway up the mountain, overlooking the surrounding area. There is only one winding stone staircase built along the ridge, and the main road leads to the entrance of the village. On both sides are steep cliffs and rushing rivers.

Outside the village, relying on the terrain and river, a dense array of visible sealing spells were set up. Golden runes, like chains, were wrapped around rocks, trees, and even the air, exuding a powerful and ancient aura.

Such a village as Wochao is easy to defend and difficult to attack!

At this moment, the two ninja armies from Kumogakure and Kirigakure, like two giant pincers, guarded the east and west ends of the main stone path, respectively, and tightly surrounded Uzushio Village.

To the east lies the Cloud Hidden's position.

Lightning flashed intermittently as the fierce Cloud Ninjas repeatedly tried to bombard the outer sealing barrier with Lightning Release ninjutsu. However, the golden rune chains were incredibly tough, and the violent lightning strikes often only produced ripple-like fluctuations before being dispersed, absorbed, or reflected, with minimal effect.

Leading the group was a burly man with a mountain-like build, dark skin, short blond hair, and a thick beard; he was none other than the fourth Raikage's successor.

Ai stood with his arms crossed at the front of the formation, his face ashen as he watched his men's futile attacks, his eyes filled with rage and impatience.

To the west is the camp of the Hidden Mist.

The light of Water Release ninjutsu rose and fell, and the Third Mizukage stood on an Ice Release platform floating on the river. His figure was slightly hunched, but his eyes were as sinister as an eagle's, and he exuded a cold aura.

The Mist Ninja were trying to use Water Release to change the river's course or create a water dragon to attack the barrier's weak points. However, the Uzumaki clan's sealing techniques seemed to have a natural resistance to chakra flow. The water flow impacted the barrier as if hitting an invisible dam, splashing water everywhere but unable to shake its foundation.

The Third Mizukage looked at the looted wealth and slaves his men had seized, then glanced at the treacherous Uzushio Village, his eyes flickering as he clearly weighed his options.

Although both sides were eager to conquer Uzushio Village immediately and divide up the wealth and sealing techniques accumulated by the Uzushio clan, they were also wary of each other.

The Hidden Cloud Village was worried that the Hidden Mist Village would use their water-style abilities to launch a surprise attack from the river or reap the benefits.

The Hidden Mist Village, on the other hand, is wary of the Hidden Cloud Village's ability to directly break through with its Lightning Release ninjutsu.

It is this subtle hostility and suspicion, coupled with the fact that Uzushio Village has relied on its natural defenses and unparalleled sealing techniques to defend itself, that has allowed this isolated city to miraculously withstand the siege of over a thousand elite soldiers from two major ninja villages.

However, this balance is as fragile as a candle flickering in the wind.

The Uzumaki clan has far fewer ninjas than the enemy, so the huge consumption of chakra is not a big problem. However, the surrounding villages and towns have been completely destroyed and resources have been cut off. Once the Cloud and Mist villages reach an agreement, or either side launches a general offensive at any cost, the fall of Uzumaki Village will be imminent!
"The situation is worse than expected."

Sasuke Umino frowned.

The Third Mizukage was undoubtedly a Kage-level powerhouse, and A had also grown considerably, at least able to exert the strength of a weak Kage. Moreover, their subordinates had deployed all their elite troops.

Although he possesses the combat power of a Kage-level puppeteer, capable of single-handedly defeating an entire nation, it would not be easy for him to directly confront these two forces, even with Kakuzu and Might Guy as backup. After all, the Uzumaki clan is not entirely composed of ninjas; there are also many elderly, weak, women, and children among them.

A direct, forceful attack is not advisable.

Sasuke Umino decisively ordered, "Execute Plan B: stealthily infiltrate and establish a passage!"

Of the six submarines, one quietly broke away from the formation, like a cunning fish, and went upstream along the murky estuary channel.

They silently passed through the blockade of the Hidden Mist Fleet and infiltrated the heart of the Land of Whirlpools.

Finally, it came to rest about five miles downstream from Wochao Village in a secluded, deep-water area of ​​a river bend.

The submarine hatch slid open silently, and Sasuke Umino, Kakuzu, and Might Guy leaped out without a sound, landing on the slippery riverbank.

"Target: Wochao Village! Advance covertly!"

The three figures moved swiftly, like three ghosts disappearing into the shadows, stealthily making their way along the dense forest and jagged rocks along the riverbank toward the heavily besieged mountain village.

……

In the secret chamber of the elders in Wochao Village.

"Clan Chief! Grand Elder!"

A young Uzumaki ninja, his face ashen, stumbled into the stone chamber at the heart of the village, protected by layers of sealing techniques, his voice filled with extreme tension.

"Kagura's Mind Eyes have detected three powerful chakra sources that are stealthily approaching our village from the downstream river channel at an alarming speed! Two of them are no less powerful than the Third Mizukage! In fact, they might be even stronger! They are about to break through our outermost defensive barrier!"

Upon hearing this terrible news, the atmosphere inside the stone chamber instantly plummeted to freezing point!

The Uzumaki clan chief, a middle-aged red-haired man with a resolute face but unable to hide his exhaustion, suddenly stood up: "What?! Two Kage-level chakra levels! Could this be a trump card hidden in Kumogakure or Kirigakure? Are they finally launching their all-out attack?!"

The elder sitting at the head of the table was an old man with white hair and beard and a face covered with deep wrinkles. His cloudy eyes, however, were now bursting with an astonishingly sharp light, as if burning with the last flame of life.

He slowly stood up, his withered hand stroking an ancient mask on the stone table, the mask exuding a chilling aura of death.

"Ahem! What was bound to happen has finally happened."

The elder's voice was hoarse and calm, yet it carried a resolute understanding of life and death. "Kagura's mind is never wrong. Two Kage-level chakras. It seems that the enemy is determined to completely wipe out my Uzumaki clan."

He looked at the young clan chief, his eyes showing no fear, only a heavy entrustment: "Clan chief, you must immediately lead those children who have awakened the Kagura Mind's Eye and those with talent to break through through the secret passage behind the village! Every one who can escape is a success! Let our Uzumaki clan's bloodline and heritage continue!"

"Elder! No!" the Whirlpool Clan Chief cried out urgently, tears welling in his eyes. "If we're going to leave, we'll leave together! We can still—"

"Foolish!" the elder interrupted sharply, his voice not loud, but carrying an undeniable authority. "With this old man like me in the mix, no one will escape! The enemy is here to wipe out the clan! With two Kage-level chakra warriors, plus A and the Mizukage outside, we have no chance of winning!"

His withered fingers pressed hard on the mask, and a cold, ominous chakra began to emanate from his emaciated body: "I've lived long enough. To be able to do my last bit of strength to protect my people in the final moments of my life is worth it!"

The First Elder's eyes became incredibly resolute, even carrying a sacred, martyr-like light: "As long as I successfully seal them and take two Shadow-level experts down with me, the Cloud Mist Alliance outside will inevitably be thrown into chaos. This is your only chance to break through! Clan Chief, for the future of the Vortex Clan, do not hesitate! This is my final order!"

The stone chamber was deathly silent.

Only the increasingly intense death chakra emanating from the elder was silently churning. The young Uzumaki ninja was already sobbing uncontrollably, while the Uzumaki clan leader's tiger-like eyes were filled with tears, his fists clenched so tightly that his nails dug deep into his palms.

He knew the elder was telling a cruel truth, but how could he stand by and watch this old man, who had dedicated his life to the family, meet his end in such a tragic way?
"Elder!" The vortex clan chief's voice choked with emotion. At the same time, a death wish arose in his heart. If the breakout was blocked, for the survival of the vortex clan, as the clan chief, he would not live on in disgrace and decided to use the Corpse Demon Sealing Forbidden Technique.

"Let's go! Set the trap according to plan and wait for them to fall into our trap!"

The elder stopped looking at the clan leader, strode forward, and exuded an aura of bleakness and desolation.

Meanwhile, Umino Sasuke and his two companions blended seamlessly into their surroundings, skillfully avoiding the layers of visible and hidden sentries and sensory barriers set up by the Cloud Mist Alliance.

Those sealing traps that were powerful enough to trap and kill Jonin were rendered useless in the face of Umino Sasuke's spiritual perception.

They easily passed through the encirclement and arrived at the outer perimeter of the Wochao Village's defensive perimeter.

(End of this chapter)