The Land of Water's border was shrouded in thick fog as a ninja hawk flew through layers of mist and landed at Kirigakure's frontline command post.
The intelligence ninja quickly removed the Scroll from the hawk's leg. One glance was enough to make his face change drastically.
"The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, personally led a combat unit to the frontlines?!"
The news was like a stone dropped into still water, instantly throwing the command post into turmoil.
"The Third Hokage came too?! Then aren't we...?!"
"Yeah, they say the Third Hokage is Konoha's strongest Hokage! What do we do?"
"..."
Every ninja looked as though they faced a formidable enemy.
In the corner, seven figures watched with sinister eyes.
Then they rose at the same time, their weapons clashing with a crisp, piercing sound.
"Finally, a decent prey. This one shouldn't be like that Hyuga, some coward who only knew how to hide, right?"
Biwa Juzo stroked the edge of Kubikiribōchō.
His shark-like teeth glinted coldly in the shadows.
"I've been killing trash every day. My blade's about to rust."
"I heard that old man is called the Ninjutsu Professor?
And he calls himself the strongest Hokage?
I'd like to see what this strongest Hokage is made of, whether he's really as impressive as the rumors say!"
Suikazan Fuguki grinned, baring his sharp teeth as Samehada wriggled excitedly on his shoulder.
"I wonder what his Chakra tastes like..."
"If we kill a Kage, won't we become famous?"
"Just like Kinkaku and Ginkaku back then?"
The Seven Ninja Swordsmen chimed in one after another. There was no reverence in their eyes, only excitement.
The seven exchanged glances, then headed for the door without another word.
Kirigakure's Commander hurriedly tried to stop them.
"Wait! We need to formulate a battle plan..."
"A