At the east gate of Konoha's outpost, Roshi and a group of Stone Ninja tirelessly attacked the barrier protecting the village. Meanwhile, the Konoha ninja stationed at the outpost had gathered on the eastern wall. Watching the Stone Ninja's assault, they could do nothing but worry.
The barrier protected both the outside and the inside. Once it was activated, attacks from outside couldn't get in, but defenses from within couldn't pass through it to counter the ninjutsu outside, either.
And with the Jonin having been called away, the outpost's defenses had grown quite weak.
"Captain Hatake, the barrier won't hold much longer."
A figure suddenly appeared beside Hatake Sakumo on the wall and quietly reported the news in his ear. He didn't dare shout it out, afraid of causing panic among the Konoha ninja.
The Stone Ninja's attack was so powerful that they could feel its force even through the barrier. Everyone inside was already anxious. If the White Fang of Konoha hadn't still been standing on the wall, someone would have suggested retreating by now.
"Understood."
Hatake Sakumo finished speaking, then called out loudly:
"Everyone, prepare for battle! The moment the barrier falls, organize a counterattack!"
"Taijutsu users, close in for hand-to-hand combat after the first wave of attacks. I'll take care of their leader!"
Hatake Sakumo had a clear understanding of Roshi's strength. To be honest, he wasn't confident he could beat him. But as the overall commander, he couldn't back down now.
If even he lost confidence, the ninja below him would break. At that moment, all Hatake Sakumo could do was pray that the barrier would hold a little longer and that Uzumaki Kuming and the others would finish their mission and return soon.
The moment Hatake Sakumo issued his latest orders, a massive crack appeared