With Nara Shikaku around, she and Ōnoki no longer needed to worry too much about certain matters, such as supplies.
Nara Shikaku and White Fang could handle all those tedious issues.
Batch after batch of shinobi forces arrived in Kumogakure from every village. The areas of Kumogakure that had been damaged were rapidly being restored in the shortest possible time.
Chairman Mao had been right: there was strength in numbers. If Kumogakure had relied solely on its own people, who knew how long it would have taken to repair the village? But with sufficient manpower, it gradually recovered in the shortest amount of time.
Kumogakure became much livelier as a result. More than a hundred thousand shinobi had gathered here, with shinobi from every village assembling to fight for their homes.
"Have the arrangements been made?"
Meanwhile, in Akatsuki's headquarters, Madara looked at Obito and Black Zetsu.
"The White Zetsu army is ready. Once the order is given, we can begin the war."
Black Zetsu grinned.
"The other preparations have also been completed. I believe we can crush the Five Great Shinobi Villages."
Obito looked at Madara, seeming as though he wanted to say something, yet he ultimately kept silent.
"Then this battle will depend on all of you. Orochimaru, I hope you will not disappoint me."
Madara glanced at Obito. He knew what Obito wanted to say, but did not bring it up. Instead, he turned to Orochimaru.
"There will be no problems."
Orochimaru grinned just like Black Zetsu and gave his assurance.
"Very good."
"Everyone."
Madara raised his voice. "I trust you have all heard the news. The Five Great Shinobi Villages have spread a message."
"If you make a move, Madara, Uchiha Ronglin won't stand by and do nothing?"
Deidara played with a small explosive spider in