Ch. 61Preparing for War
Key Plot Points and Events
- Masaki Uchiha orders the major clans to hand over their stockpiled war supplies to Konoha.
- He decides to send the entire Shimura Clan (Danzō's clan) to the front lines against Kumogakure.
- The war's command personnel are discussed: Jiraiya as commander against Iwagakure, Hizashi Hyuga as deputy, Uchiha Fugaku as commander against Kumogakure, and Shikaku Nara as deputy.
- Jiraiya returns to Konoha and joins the war planning meeting.
Character Developments
- Masaki Uchiha shows his strategic thinking and decisiveness in preparing for war.
- Sarutobi Hiruzen demonstrates his political acumen by recommending Jiraiya for command and trying to protect the Shimura Clan.
- Jiraiya shows remorse for not returning sooner to help Minato and determination to contribute to the war effort.
Significant Themes
- Preparation and Foresight: Masaki Uchiha's earlier orders to stockpile supplies and his anticipation of localized wars highlight the importance of preparation and long-term thinking.
- Political Maneuvering: The jōnin meeting showcases the political dynamics within Konoha, with different clans and factions vying for influence and positions.
- Sacrifice and Loss: The discussion about sending the Shimura Clan to the front lines emphasizes the personal costs of war and the potential loss of life.
Character Interactions
- Masaki Uchiha and Sarutobi Hiruzen engage in a power struggle, with Masaki Uchiha making decisions and Sarutobi Hiruzen trying to influence them.
- The Hyuga brothers try to make things difficult for Sarutobi Hiruzen but end up benefiting from Masaki Uchiha's decisions.
- Jiraiya's return reunites him with Sarutobi Hiruzen, and he joins the war planning, showing his commitment to Konoha's cause.