Chapter 215 - 4: The Troubles of Kitsuchi
In the operations command room of the Tsuchikage building in Iwagakure, a group of military strategists were busily arranging red and blue markers on a massive sand table. Standing at the front of the sand table, Kitsuchi furrowed his brows so deeply that they formed a "川" shape. His jaw was clenched tightly, causing a hard ridge of muscle to bulge along his cheeks. His hands gripped the command rod so firmly that it seemed he might crush it, while his bloodshot eyes remained fixed on the blue flags representing Kumogakure forces advancing step by step into the heart of Iwagakure’s territory.
A week ago, Kumogakure’s army stationed at the border of the Land of Earth and the Land of Lightning suddenly launched an unprovoked attack. The commander, originally Tsukigami Kou, was replaced by the Third Raikage, A, whose overwhelming physical prowess and devastating One-Finger Nukite instantly crushed the forces led by Akatsuchi, leaving them no chance to resist.
Now, with only five thousand troops, the Third Raikage A had penetrated over five hundred kilometers into the Land of Earth, and his forces were poised to strike directly at Iwagakure.
"Order Akatsuchi to hold the Kumogakure army at the Zheyan Gorge for at least three days, no matter the cost! Mojiru and Kagari, organize three thousand reinforcements to form a secondary defensive line at Bolin Valley and prepare to support Akatsuchi!" Kitsuchi barked out orders.
"But Lord Kitsuchi, such resistance is futile," came the calm voice of Bunya, a Jonin.
Bunya was a young elite Jonin personally mentored by Onoki, known for his steady demeanor and exceptional strength. With a physique as solid as a boulder and unparalleled raw power, he excelled in Earth Release and sealing techniques. His mastery over battlefield tactics had earned him the position of Iwagakure’s chief strategist.
"What is your suggestion, then?" Kitsuchi asked, knowing he valued Bunya’s opinions greatly.
"This time, with the Third Raikage personally leading the army, his intent is clear: to break through our defenses swiftly and seize Iwagakure in one decisive strike. While Zheyan Gorge and Bolin Valley are advantageous for defense due to their terrain, they lack fortified structures. It will be extremely difficult to effectively repel Kumogakure’s highly motivated forces."
Bunya pointed to the markers on the sand table as he analyzed the situation.
"So, what do you propose we do?" Kitsuchi asked.
"I believe we should move the battlefield back," Bunya replied.