A Vast Net

Konoha Chunin Exams.

Kakashi, Guy, Asuma, Kurenai, Hizashi, Shikaku, Choza, Shikaku, and Inoichi were all in the Hokage Office, filling it to the brim.

"Recently, Konoha has gone through a great deal, and many forces have begun eyeing it covetously."

"I have received reliable intelligence that other forces will attack Konoha during these Chunin Exams."

"Our enemies will likely be more than one faction. The outcome of this attack..."

"...will directly determine Konoha's standing in the Shinobi World."

"So this time, we must secure the greatest victory with the fewest casualties."

"Hizashi, you will oversee and command the Military Police Force."

"Asuma and Kurenai will assist Hizashi."

"Choza, you will be responsible for guarding the walls."

"Kakashi and Guy, remain on standby for support."

"Shikaku will oversee the medical system. If necessary, bring Tsunade here."

"Shikaku and Inoichi will handle intelligence and battlefield deployment. You must ensure the civilians' safety."

Wearing the Hokage robes, Orochimaru sat in his seat and issued orders to the jonin below.

An Anbu stood behind him, looking at Orochimaru with what seemed to be amusement in his eyes.

Shikaku frowned as he looked at Orochimaru, a contemplative glint flashing through his eyes.

"I will be responsible for the Anbu. If I am absent when the time comes, command of the Anbu and overall command will pass to Shikaku."

Shikaku seemed to snap back to himself. "Yes, Lord Hokage."

Orochimaru waved his hand, and all the jonin left.

None of them were fools. Of Konoha's two great clans, the Uchiha had left, while the Hyuga had suffered a devastating blow.

Many forces had already begun coveting Konoha.

The Fifth Hokage was holding large-scale Chunin Exams at this time to establish Konoha's prestige.

But none of them had expected the Fifth Hokage to already possess clear intelligence